The sound management of chemicals is a pertinent cross-cutting issue. Further advancing the implementation of sound chemicals management will be crucial to implement the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, in particular the Sustainable Development Goals.
The database structure and its characteristic accessibility to all stakeholders, as they are outlined under the provisions of the Protocol, provide Parties of the Protocol with the necessary experience and know how to address various challenges regarding the management of data and its usage by multiple user groups and across sectors. The scope of the Protocol is often adapted by Parties according to national priorities, while the Protocol’s minimum requirements support comparability of data across borders. Recalling the Protocol’s broader objective to reduce pollution to air, water and land, it is noted that comparability and completeness of data are a requirement to achieve the Protocol’s objective. The provision of resources matching the Protocol’s objective will also define the role it may play in reaching the SDGs.