April 2013: The Strategic Approach to International Chemicals Management (SAICM) is calling for input and ideas from stakeholders on its Concept Note for developing the Overall Orientation and Guidance towards approaching the 2020 goal of sound management of chemicals. The Secretariat has prepared the document at the request of the third International Conference on Chemicals Management (ICCM), for the consideration of the fourth ICCM.

According to the Secretariat, the Concept Note has been prepared under the guidance of the Bureau, and will be discussed at regional meetings and the Open-ended Working Group (OEWG) before being presented to the fourth ICCM.

The five-page Concept Note, titled ‘Achieving the future we want for the sound management of chemicals,’ includes a proposed structure for the Draft Framework Document (DFD), which will be used as a basis for consultation during the SAICM regional meetings. The DFD includes sections achievements to date, gaps, and priority actions. It focuses on SAICMs five overarching policy strategy objectives: risk reduction; knowledge and information; governance; capacity building and technical cooperation; and illegal international traffic.

Comments on the Concept Note are to be provided to the SAICM Secretariat by 16 May 2013. [SAICM Website] [Concept Note]