SAICM - Strategic Approach to International Chemicals Management

Discussion paper on integration of INFOCAP in the SAICM information clearing-house

The functions of the SAICM secretariat, mandated in the SAICM Overarching Policy Strategy, include "to provide information clearing house services such as provision of advice to countries on implementation of the Strategic Approach, referral of requests for information to relevant sources, and facilitation of access to information and expertise in support of specific national actions". As part of the development of this information clearing-house function, the secretariat is working to integrate the existing Information Exchange Network on Capacity-building for the Sound Management of Chemicals (INFOCAP).

INFOCAP is a database that aims to enhance effective coordination and cooperation among countries and organizations which are providing or receiving assistance related to the sound management of chemicals. On the recommendation of the Committee of the Whole of the International Conference on Chemicals Management, the SAICM secretariat has agreed to work with the Intergovernmental Forum on Chemical Safety (IFCS) to take over the administration of INFOCAP.

INFOCAP will undergo modernisation to take into account its changed institutional context and to benefit from technological developments since its inception. The SAICM secretariat, with the support of the Government of Germany, has contracted a consultant to analyse options, for and implement, modifications to INFOCAP and its integration with the SAICM information clearing house. The consultant has prepared a discussion paper on the possible modifications to INFOCAP.

The discussion paper was presented at the 75th meeting of the IFCS Forum Standing Committee in Bangkok on 26 February 2008. Views expressed by participants have been summarized in a report.

Stakeholder wishing to provide further comments on the discussion paper are invited to send their comments before 31 March 2008 to the SAICM secretariat via email saicm@chemicals.unep.ch or by fax +41 797 34 60.