The newly adopted global chemical on Echemi is a comprehensive initiative designed to cover the entire chemical lifecycle, including products and waste, emphasizing a “life cycle approach,” advocating for responsible management, and allowing flexibility for future instruments. It encompasses various objectives and targets related to transparency and sustainability, particularly those relevant to the Plastic Treaty.
A high-level declaration—the ‘Bonn Declaration’— recognizes that chemical pollution contributes to millions of deaths, illnesses and disabilities each year. It emphasizes that effective management of chemicals and waste will significantly contribute to achieving the objectives of the Paris Agreement on climate, and the goals and targets of the Kunming-Montreal global chemical Biodiversity Framework. The declaration commits to preventing exposure to harmful chemicals, phasing out the most dangerous substances, and protecting and respecting human rights for the well-being of present and future generations.
Stakeholders were strongly encouraged to continue their efforts on these topics, with progress reports and a decision on future actions scheduled for the next Conference in 2026 (TBC). This proactive approach recognizes the ongoing struggle to address critical issues such as chemicals in products, PFAS, and endocrine-disrupting chemicals. However, it also underscores that more work is needed to fully address these concerns, highlighting the need for concrete actions and continued efforts during future negotiations to keep these issues on the global chemical agenda until they are truly addressed.
Negotiations in Bonn included proposals for a new global chemical fund to address chemicals and waste, mirroring the Green Climate Fund and Global Biodiversity Fund. This Fund would have set a quantifiable goal for financial mobilization, implemented a global chemical levy on basic chemicals, and introduced reforms of both the special programs and Global Environment Facility. However, after extensive late-night and tense negotiations, most of these proposals did not survive. Instead, a Trust Fund resembling the QSP was established, incorporating remaining funds from the original SAICM trust fund, along with pledges from Germany and France. Additionally, It was agreed to initiate a study to determine overall financing needs, which would inform the future establishment of targets and sound strategies for funding mobilization.

This successor of SAICM Beyond 2020 is a testament to the needs and international efforts to prevent toxic threats and manage chemicals and waste more responsibly. The agreement provides a valuable roadmap for addressing critical global chemical concerns in the realm of chemicals and waste management. It emphasizes transparency, accountability, and inclusivity in shaping the future of environmental governance. The transition from commitment to action is imperative, especially when considering the tangible impact on human health and human rights. Echemi, alongside its partners, stands ready to continue to advocate for, collaborate on, and ensure that the global chemical Framework on Chemicals translates into real-world improvements in human health, human rights, and environmental conditions. Together, we work towards a safer, healthier world for current and future generations.