Towards a prioritization screening framework for chemicals, wastes and pollution

Abstract

With constrained resources and many issues at hand, various prioritization mechanisms will be needed to determine issues to be addressed for the upcoming Science Policy Panel (SPP) for chemicals, waste and pollution, currently mandated for development by the UN Environment Assembly. This proposed rapid review sets out one way to assist in prioritization. A screening of the current or expected impact - the actual harm caused to human health, biodiversity, food and water supply systems or economic cost - of the chemical or pollution issue can be made with a literature search and inputs from knowledgeable groups and experts. Issues reaching thresholds that indicate high impact can be recommended for assessment by the Panel. This approach is useful to highlight issues that may especially be of concern in low and middle-income countries, and is complementary to risk management methodologies of regulatory agencies in high-income countries.