Minervian Politics and International Chemicals Policy

Abstract

The global community of international organizations, states, and non-governmental actors has engaged in sustained cooperation on hazardous chemicals since the 1960s, establishing a host of international institutions for chemicals management. Tens of thousands of chemicals are used regularly in industrial manufacturing, in agriculture, in consumer products, and in human health protection. Modern chemistry provides numerous societal benefits, but chemicals production and use also come with risks. At high doses, many chemicals are lethal. Studies have also linked low-dose exposure to hazardous chemicals with disruption of endocrine functions, immune system impairments, and functional and physiological effects on reproduction capabilities in animals and humans (Arctic Monitoring and Assessment Programme 2009, 2010). International and domestic management efforts seek to minimize environmental and human health risks from hazardous chemicals while recognizing the many positive aspects of the chemicals revolution.