40th Anniversary of Responsible Care: Global Sustainability Movement Marks a Milestone

Responsible Care®, the chemical industry's global sustainability initiative, is marking its 40th anniversary. Originally launched in Canada in 1985, the program is now conducted under the leadership of more than 60 national chemical associations in over 70 economies and aims to raise standards of safety, sustainability and transparency across the sector.

In Europe, coordinated by Cefic and progressing in collaboration with organizations such as the International Council of Chemical Associations (ICCA), the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the OECD, Responsible Care® stands out for its widespread adoption on a global scale. More than 90 of the world's top 100 chemical companies have committed to the initiative.

Cefic and ICCA President Dr. Ilham Kadri commented on Responsible Care's guiding role in the sector: "Responsible Care is a way for our industry to take the lead in safety, sustainability and strong governance. It is more than a commitment; it is our method of turning progress into reality."

Companies participating in the initiative make concrete commitments in areas such as safer workplaces and strong occupational health and safety standards, reducing resource consumption and lowering CO₂ emissions, smarter chemical management along the value chain and transparent communication with stakeholders.

Over the four-decade period, Responsible Care® has made measurable contributions to the transition towards a more circular and climate-neutral economy in line with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. The program guides companies on operations management, performance monitoring and evaluation, and the sharing of best practices.

The European Responsible Care® Awards, held in Europe since 2005, recognize outstanding projects by chemical companies and federations across the continent. Cefic AFEM President and Chief Executive Officer of France Chimie Magali Smets said, "Responsible Care is a priority for all national federations. Through the Responsible Care Awards, we are pleased to showcase best practices to our members, whether large companies or SMEs. Additionally, through the self-assessment tool, we can help our members identify or strengthen their sustainability approaches."
In its 40th year, Responsible Care® continues to create impact on a global scale by strengthening the culture of safety and sustainability in the chemical industry.

***On the EU side, through the Cefic and ICCA channels, the Turkey Chemical Manufacturers Association (TKSD), a Cefic member, manages the implementation of the Responsible Care Program in Turkey.