Global Chemicals Outlook II - From Legacies to Innovative Solutions: Implementing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development

This report examines how the surge in chemical production and use affects health, ecosystems, and economies, and outlines actions aligned with the 2030 Agenda. It finds the chemicals sector exceeded USD 5 trillion in 2017 and is projected to double by 2030, with growth concentrated in emerging economies. It documents persistent releases of hazardous substances and an estimated 1.6 million deaths in 2016 from selected chemical exposures. Progress under treaties and voluntary tools exists but is uneven; many countries have yet to implement core systems such as the Globally Harmonized System. The report consolidates trends, policy gaps, and practical solutions, including green and sustainable chemistry, supply chains, alternatives assessment, improved financing, and stronger science–policy links, and calls for scaled, collaborative action beyond 2020 to minimize harms.