UNEP Chemicals Newsletter February 2008

UNEP Chemicals Branch was responsible for organizing the first meeting of the Open-Ended Working Group on Mercury (OEWG). The meeting provided a solid basis for future work in the inter-sessional period leading up to the second meeting of the OEWG in October 2008. Its success will depend on thorough preparation of the second meeting, which will be a priority for UNEP Chemicals Branch. Another priority area for UNEP Chemicals Branch is SAICM implementation. The Quick Start Programme (QSP) Trust Fund, facilitated by the SAICM secretariat, has already seen the approval of 40 projects benefiting 52 developing countries and countries with economies in transition. UNEP is working with UNDP to assist in the execution of QSP projects relating to mainstreaming of chemicals management in developing planning.