European chemical industry urges World Health Organisation to focus its efforts on priorities

15-Jun-2007

Attending the Intergovernmental Mid-Term Review of the WHO Children Environment and Health Action Programme for Europe in Vienna, Cefic Research & Innovation Executive Director Gernot Klotz reaffirmed industry's commitment to the process saying that a solid understanding of the various factors impacting health is key to improving the well-being of future generations.

The chemical industry calls for a sustainable and integrated approach that addresses real health priorities and seeks efficient solutions that lead to improvements in public health in Europe. Societal requirements for economic, social, environment and health improvement need to be balanced within the ongoing WHO process.

"We are taking responsibility for what goes on in our backyard and urge all stakeholders in the WHO process to identify real public health priorities on which we could work together", said Klotz. "Cooperation and coordination between all responsible parties are essential for efficient action and results. Industry has a crucial role to play in this process", he added.

Recognised by the World Health Organisation in 2004 for its progress, industry has continuously contributed to increasing scientific knowledge by investing in research and has improved its products and processes accordingly. Examples of this commitment will be presented to the WHO meeting including:

- the Responsible Care® programme - a global charter which commits the chemical industry to strive for continuous improvements in all aspects of health, safety and environment

- the Long-Range Research initiative - a global industry-funded research programme into health and environment impacts, now into its 10th year

- the European Technology Platform for Sustainable Chemistry (SusChem) - an industry and European Commission initiative co-founded by Cefic which seeks to boost technology development and innovation in Europe.

https://www.chemeurope.com/en/news/65480/european-chemical-industry-urges-world-health-organisation-to-focus-its-efforts-on-priorities.html