Chemicals in Commerce

Chemicals in Commerce at the IC2

Chemical use in commerce is ubiquitous. According to the World Health Organization, there are “about 40,000 to 60,000… found in commerce; 6,000 of these account for more than 99% of the total volume of chemicals in commerce globally. In 2017, the chemical industry was the second largest manufacturing industry in the world and the trend is going upwards – chemicals sales are projected to almost double from 2017 to 2030.” State and local legislatures and agencies have enacted legislation and rules aimed at better understanding the universe of chemicals and assess which chemicals and uses pose a risk to human health and the environment that require manufactures that use in chemicals in commerce, particularly chemicals of concern, to report on their use of those chemicals. This reporting will inform policy makers on decisions regarding restrictions on particular chemicals and their uses. 

The IC2 has developed three resources regarding chemicals in commerce:

• the High Priority Chemical Data System (HPCDS) is an online platform that supports reporting on the presence of chemicals of concern in consumer products
• the Chemical Hazard Assessment Database (CHAD) was developed to promote awareness of assessments conducted on chemicals of high concern, facilitate transparency and discussion
• the Chemicals of Concern: State Laws is a standing page that links state implementation efforts on reporting requirements, regulations, and chemical restrictions.  

Toxic Substances Control Act at the IC2

State and local health and environmental programs around the U.S. that are focused on reducing toxics work together to engage in the US EPA’s Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). IC2’s State and Local Government TSCA Workgroup tracks and engages in US EPA’s TSCA activities. The workgroup members meet regularly with and submit public comments to US EPA to ensure federal decisions consider state and local government experience in reducing the use of toxic chemicals.

For more information, please contact Mikalah Bailey.