Responsible Care: a key element in the chemical industry's approach to sustainable development

The concept of sustainable development is being adopted by an increasing number of international business associations in recognition of the necessity to transform the way business is done in relation to the environment. The Responsible Care initiative is the chemical industry's chosen vehicle for improving health, safety and environmental performance. The initiative has been adopted by 41 countries and committed companies account for 85% of the global manufacture of chemicals. The initiative is described in terms of its response ro the requirements of sustainable development.