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Social, Economic, and Environmental Impact of Chemical Regulations

12 Jul 2007 - Global manufacturers are facing increasing pressure to balance the economic and societal impact of domestic and foreign chemical controls such as REACH, RoHS, WEEE and GHS. On August 9-10, the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) will host Action and Reaction: Developing a sustainable approach to emerging chemical issues, in Baltimore, MD, to engage participants in solutions-focused discussions that bridge regulatory requirements with sustainable manufacturing practices.
 
"From textiles and pharmaceuticals to electronics and automobiles, chemicals are used in every industry," explained Dr. Nina McClelland, former chair of the American Chemical Society and chair of the conference planning committee. "The impact is all encompassing. Chemical issues span research and development, production, supply chain and security, energy efficiency, sustainability (green chemistry), and waste management."
 
Representatives of government and industry are invited to join in developing a sustainable approach that will balance the economic impact of these controls with activities that promote safety, health and the quality of life.
 
Dr. John Marburger, director of the President's Office of Science and Technology Policy, will deliver the keynote address, beginning a study of existing and expected chemical codes and regulations. Life cycle management, risk assessment, and other environmental performance tools will also be discussed.
 
Featured speakers will offer perspectives from industry, government and the scientific and technical communities, as well as representative views from the Asia-Pacific region.
 
Conference participants will work together to identify existing initiatives, and applicable standards and compliance programs, as well as areas where improvements may be needed. An outcome report will detail resources and recommendations for coordinated strategies and action plans.