Dr. Shahriar Hossain, Secretary General of Environment and Social Development Organization-ESDO participated as a Distinguished Speaker at the 7th Planetary Health Dialogue hosted by the Centre for Planetary Health Policy (CPHP). He shed light on the crucial topic of environmental justice in the context of chemical pollution.

He emphasized the paramount importance of addressing chemicals and the environment. While acknowledging the indispensability of chemicals in modern life, he underscored the urgency of understanding and mitigating their adverse effects. He stressed that proper management of chemical usage is vital in preventing toxicity and safeguarding both environmental and human health. He said “environment is in our hands,” and highlighted the critical link between chemicals, the environment, and human well-being. He explained the disparities between developed and developing nations, particularly regarding access to information on chemical hazards. In many developing countries, the lack of awareness among the population exacerbates the risks associated with chemical exposure.

Dr. Shahriar Hossain advocated for comprehensive policy frameworks to address this pressing issue, citing the Strategic Approach to International Chemicals Management (SAICM) and the International Conference on Chemicals Management (ICCM) as global initiatives for guiding chemical management practices. By addressing this issue, we can protect our citizen, future generation and ecosystem from the harms of chemical pollution.

He called for concerted efforts at both the international and national levels. He urged stakeholders to identify the existing gaps in chemical management policies and practices to ensure a sustainable and equitable future for all.

Check the following link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NySZDAN5p2Y.