Islamabad: The federal government has decided to take comprehensive measures to protect the environment from chemical pollution. In this regard, the Ministry of Climate Change has decided to implement a framework related to the safe management and use of chemicals across the country.
According to official documents, the Ministry of Climate Change has finalized the National Integrated Chemical Management and Safety Framework, which will soon be submitted to the federal cabinet for approval. The framework is planned to be implemented over a five-year period and aims to reduce the harmful impacts of chemical substances on human health, the environment, and natural resources.
Under the framework, a National Coordination Committee on Chemical Management will be established to oversee implementation. The 16-member committee will include representatives from various federal ministries, departments, regulatory bodies, and relevant associations. The committee will be responsible for providing strategic direction and ensuring effective coordination for the implementation of the framework.
The documents state that the committee will facilitate coordination among chemical-using companies, as well as federal and provincial governments, to ensure the safe and regulated use of chemical substances nationwide.
To support implementation, the committee will establish six specialized working groups. These groups will focus on developing and enforcing regulations related to chemical management, information sharing, risk assessment, and emergency response in the event of chemical incidents.
The National Coordination Committee will review and approve budgets, work plans, and project proposals submitted by the working groups to ensure effective and timely execution of the framework.
Officials believe that the implementation of this national framework will significantly reduce chemical environmental pollution and align industrial practices with international environmental standards. Experts say the initiative represents an important step toward strengthening environmental protection, safeguarding public health, and promoting sustainable development in Pakistan.
