One of the functions of the International Conference on Chemicals Management (ICCM) as identified in the SAICM Overarching Policy Strategy (paragragh 24.j) is to call for appropriate action on emerging policy issues as they arise and to forge consensus on priorities for cooperative action.
So far resolutions have been adopted on the following eight emerging policy issues and other issues of concern at ICCM2, ICCM3 and / or ICCM4:
- Lead in paint
- Chemicals in products
- Hazardous substance within the life cycle of electrical and electronic products
- Nanotechnology and manufactured nanomaterials
- Endocrine-disrupting chemicals
- Environmentally persistent pharmaceutical pollutants
- Perfluorinated chemicals and the transition to safer alternatives
- Highly hazardous pesticides
The resolutions adopted recognize the policy imperatives to address identified concerns, agree on the actions needed and request specific stakeholders to consider undertaking certain actions.
Future emerging policy issues
An open and transparent procedure is set out in annex to resolution II/4 by the conference which explains the procedures to be followed by the secretariat of the Strategic Approach to International Chemicals Management in receiving nominations for emerging policy issues and preparing them for future consideration.