Chemicals bring a number of benefits to modern societies, but despite these important economic, social, and health benefits, chemicals can be extremely harmful if they are not properly managed.
While policymakers are beginning to understand the important role played by the sound management of chemicals in economic and social development, it is also important to recognize the significant linkages between gender and chemicals.
This guidance document describes important linkages between development, gender, and chemicals management. It explains the relevance of gender to policymaking and programming in the area of sound management of chemicals. The guidance provides a sample checklist for integrating gender aspects, which can be used for awareness raising in Small Islands Development States (SIDS).