UNEP hosts the Secretariat of the Global Framework on Chemicals (GFC), a global multi-sectoral and multi-stakeholder policy framework working to promote the sound management of chemicals across their lifecycle.
An inclusive, voluntary, global policy framework, GFC provides a platform for Member States and non-state actors to deliberate on the sound management of chemicals within an atmosphere of relative trust and cooperation. GFC helps implement a global system of classifying and labelling chemicals, and assists in establishing accident preparedness and poison control centres. GFC also identifies emerging issues, raising the profile of new threats such as endocrine-disrupting chemicals and nanomaterials.
The UNEP GEF Chemicals and Waste Portfolio and the GFC Secretariat work together on projects focused on lead in paint, electronic waste, chemicals in textiles, and many other topics that are the subject of the GFC Emerging Policy Issues (EPIs).
The Framework, adopted in September 2023 at the fifth International Conference on Chemicals Management (ICCM5), seeks to protect both the planet and human health, advocating for strong governance mechanisms and enforcing international standards.
