The International Conference on Chemicals Management at its second session (Geneva, 11-15 May 2009) endorsed the establishment of a global partnership to promote the phase-out of the use of lead in paint as an important contribution to the implementation of paragraph 57 of the Plan of Implementation of the World Summit on Sustainable Development and to the Strategic Approach to International Chemicals Management.
The United Nations Environment Programme and the World Health Organization within their respective mandates and available resources were invited to serve as the secretariat of this global initiative.
Photograph: Suat Eman
Key activities areas for the elimination of lead paints
a) Raising awareness of toxicity to human health and the environment and alternatives;
(b) Guidance and assistance to identify potential lead exposure;
(c) Assistance to industry (manufacturers, wholesalers and retailers);
(d) Prevention programmes to reduce exposure;
(e) Promotion of national regulatory frameworks.