A Chemical World

Chemicals play a foundational role in modern society, underpinning critical society pillars including healthcare, food systems, housing, and transportation. However, the chemicals we rely on have the potential to be hazardous to human health and the environment.

The global production and use of hazardous chemicals pose a significant and persistent threat to human health and the environment. Hazardous chemicals are found across every industrial sector. Many of these chemicals, such as persistent organic pollutants (POPs), can accumulate in the environment and lead to long term exposures. Certain chemicals can cause immense harm to human health, even at low levels. Furthermore, occupational exposure, environmental contamination, and product-related pathways contribute to a complex web of human exposures and subsequent health concerns.

Despite growing awareness and progress in some regions, the pace of adopting safer, more sustainable chemistries lags behind the use of traditional chemicals. There are many challenges to the adoption of safer and more sustainable chemistries:

  • Lack of data for chemicals in commerce: Many chemicals in commerce lack comprehensive data on their environmental and health impacts. Without this information, it is difficult to identify chemicals of concern, or safer alternatives. In addition, limited transparency in chemical formulations prevents users and regulators from making informed decisions.
  • Technical and performance barriers: Developing new chemistries that meet both safety and performance standards requires significant research and development (R&D) investment, time, and specialized expertise in green chemistry and materials science.
  • Economic and market barriers: The development and adoption of safer chemicals may entail higher upfront costs for R&D and transitioning manufacturing processes. Without strong market or regulatory drivers, companies may be reluctant to make such investments, particularly when use of hazardous chemicals is still permitted and cost-effective.
  • Fragmented regulatory environment: Regulatory frameworks are often reactive, slow to evolve, and vary significantly across jurisdictions. Regulations are not always effective drivers towards safer solutions. Additionally, the lack of harmonized global standards can create uncertainty and complications for companies doing business across many jurisdictions.
  • Institutional inertia: Supply chains and manufacturing practices are often built around existing chemistries. Shifting away from these familiar systems is a massive challenge, and the benefits can feel uncertain or abstract. Changing supply chains or manufacturing practices can face resistance from within organizations, especially when the benefits of alternatives feel distant or indirect.

Thus, the reality is that many chemicals are both hazardous and extremely useful. Solving this dichotomy will be much more complex than simple elimination. Transitioning to a society supported by safer, more sustainable chemistries will require coordinated action across disciplines, sectors, and jurisdictions.

Central to this effort is the engagement of manufacturers and chemical users. Companies must be empowered and encouraged to take measures that move towards safer, sustainable solutions that support their business objectives and broader societal goals. TUR planning is one such framework that empowers companies to make decisions that will benefit their business, human health, and the environment.

Further Reading

To learn more about the intersection of chemicals, health and the environment, we suggest the following resources:

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