Toward a Global Understanding of Chemical Pollution: A First Comprehensive Analysis of National and Regional Chemical Inventories

The article provides a comprehensive overview of the global chemical market, highlighting the vast number of chemicals and mixtures—over 350,000—that are registered across 19 countries and regions, which is up to three times the number previously estimated. This first step towards understanding the extent of chemical pollution reveals significant variations in chemical registration across different countries and regions. A critical concern raised is the lack of transparency, with over 50,000 chemicals claimed as confidential and up to 70,000 described ambiguously. This obscurity in chemical identity hinders global efforts to assess and manage the environmental and health risks associated with chemical pollution.

The analysis underscores the urgent need for coordinated efforts among all stakeholders, including scientists from various disciplines, to address the gaps in knowledge about chemical pollution and to develop strategies for reducing its impact on human health and ecosystems. The article suggests that a more unified and transparent approach to chemical registration and management is essential for maintaining the balance of Earth's planetary boundaries and ensuring a safer environmental future.