Ideal Chemical Policy

Ideal chemical policy

Ideal chemical policy should contain the following components:

1.     Give the public the right to know the chemical information.

2.     Require a comprehensive safety data for all chemicals.

3.     Phase out highly toxic chemicals and require safer substitutes and solutions.

4.     Take immediate action to protect the communities and workers

Personally, I think the most important element of the ideal chemical policy should let the public know thoroughly about the chemical products. If people do not have a right to know about the chemical, how can people know to protect themselves and avoid the harmful effects from them? For example, many cosmetic products, due to the trade secret, the public does not have the right to know the chemical content of the products.  Many people may choose daily household products with harmful chemicals, such as lead and mercury. This issue is related to the social determinants of public health. Without the right to know, it is also a social injustice for the public.