Chemical risk governance: Exploring stakeholder participation in Canada, the USA, and the EU

Abstract

Hazardous chemicals are one of the greatest environmental challenges facing our planet, testing governments in the face of economic and social development. Chemical risks are often complex systemic risks, which require particular governance processes, stakeholder participation mechanisms, and communication procedures to manage. In this article we explore how such processes, mechanisms, and procedures could offer more effective pathways for international chemical risk assessment and management. Combining document analysis with 69 key informant interviews and four focus groups with experts from across government, nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) and industry in Canada, the USA and Europe (n = 24), the results highlight the importance of increasing stakeholder participation and risk communication in existing chemical risk assessment and management frameworks. Similarities and differences between the three jurisdictions are discussed with a view to inform future risk governance strategies. The contemporary insights are of relevance to decision-makers seeking to improve the effectiveness of chemical risk governance in practice.

Helping Incorporate Safe and Sustainability into Materials Research: A Checklist Tool Designed for Early Career Researchers

“…Infamous examples include substituting bisphenol A with bisphenol S (replacing one endocrine disrupter with another) and chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) with hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) (ozone depletion vs global warming). , The manufacturing community is increasingly aware that toxic risks associated with new materials may eventually become business risks. The regulatory community, particularly in Europe under the Green Deal, is gradually adopting a precautionary approach to the assessment and management of new chemicals and substances …”