University of Gothenburg
An international group of scientists is proposing a global intergovernmental science-policy body for informing policymakers and the public on chemicals and waste. In a paper published today in Science, the group explains how limited and fragmented science-policy interaction in current international governance of chemicals has contributed to widespread health and environmental harm.
“Chemical use in society is a double edge-sword. On the one hand, chemicals are vital for modern society, for example as building or packaging materials but also as pesticides, pharmaceuticals and personal care products. However, at the same time, chemicals are also a global hazard for human health and the environment. We therefore need a dedicated structure, an “interface”, between science and policy that enables the long-term systematic exchange of scientific knowledge and societal demands. This is what we outline in the paper”, says Thomas Backhaus, Professor of Ecotoxicology at the University of Gothenburg.