Background

The GCO is a two year project which covers three broad inter-linked areas, building upon the findings of existing and concurrent studies:

• Pillar I: Trends and indicators: This portion will describe quantitative and qualitative changes in the production, use and disposal of chemicals, including products containing chemicals, with a focus on developing countries. It will also assess the health and environmental effects of chemicals, again with a particular focus on developing and transition countries.

• Pillar II: This portion will explore the benefits of the sound management of chemicals, as well as the potential costs of inaction and benefits of action on chemical hazards.

• Pillar III: This portion will explore instruments and approaches for prevention and management of toxic chemical pollution and promotion of safer alternatives. This will include identifying legal, economic, technical and voluntary instruments and decision-making tools for minimizing toxic chemical pollution and promotion of safer alternatives including green and sustainable chemistry.

Next: Steering Committee