International Law Governing Chemical Risk Assessment and Management

Abstract

This chapter introduces and analyzes the enormous number and variety of international instruments addressing the regulation of hazardous substances from consumer products to manufacturing installations. International authorities are categorized according to regulatory theory, ranging from hazard identification and testing to disposal. Other regulatory approaches include limitations on pollutant releases and prevention of and response to industrial accidents. Multilateral norms originating from global and regional institutions, UN specialized agencies, and non-UN organizations are analyzed as well. The piece addresses both “hard” (binding or conventional) and “soft” (nonbinding) instruments, correlating legal form with policy purpose.