The fifth International Conference on Chemicals Management (ICCM5) took place last week in Bonn, Germany.
It concluded with the adoption of a new global framework that sets clear commitments for the sound management of chemicals and waste.
The framework includes an important target on highly hazardous pesticides (HHPs), calling on countries to take measures to phase out HHPs in agriculture by 2035.
A further outcome of the conference was the adoption of a resolution to form a Global Alliance on highly hazardous pesticides. The resolution had been proposed by the African Group and will bring together a coalition of partners to help drive change.
Responding to these outcomes, Mark Davis, Director for Agriculture and Regulatory Outreach at the Centre for Pesticide Suicide Prevention, said:
“Congratulations to all delegates who worked tirelessly to achieve these clear commitments on highly hazardous pesticides. It is a significant achievement that has the potential to make a big impact on human and environmental health.”
“Highly hazardous pesticides cause disproportionate harm and thousands of deaths every year. Strong international action to phase-out HHPs from agriculture is exactly what is needed to prevent further harm, particularly to vulnerable people living in low and middle-income countries.”
“Effort must now be put into implementation of the target and establishing the Global Alliance. Governments, industry, and all other stakeholders, must adhere to what has been agreed and take action to protect our people and planet.”
Useful links
5th Meeting of the International Conference on Chemicals Management (ICCM5)
Global framework agreed in Bonn sets targets to address harm from chemicals and waste
