Gaining GPS momentum

Gaining GPS momentum

In line with chemical organisations worldwide, the Responsible Care association in Chinese Taipei, TRCA, has been working hard to raise awareness and implementation of ICCA’s Global Product Strategy (GPS). A significant step forward was TRCA’s translation of the GPS Risk Assessment Guidance into Chinese, a move warmly welcomed by the China Petroleum and Chemical Industry Federation (CPCIF).    

Its first GPS awareness raising event was held back in March 2011, supported by ICCA and the Japan Chemical Industry Association which spearheads many capacity building activities in Asia on an ongoing basis.  It drew over 150 stakeholders including TRCA members, academia, the authorities and NGO representatives. Keynote speeches were given by Dr. Stephen Shu-hung Shen, Minister of the national Environmental Protection Administration (pictured), and Director General of the Industrial Development Bureau Dr. Tyzz-Juin Duh.

Translating into Action

By the year end, another four events had been held with advanced GPS training scheduled for 2012. Launch of a traditional Chinese version of the GPS Risk Assessment Guidance will facilitate not only local companies’ implementation of GPS but also the industry in mainland China where CPCIF is promoting Responsible Care activities to members. It was compiled through the joint efforts of TRCA and the national Safety and Health Technology Center, with preparation of a second edition due for completion early 2012. “TRCA welcomes member companies and associations to share this document with value chain members,” noted Renata Hsu, the association’s Secretary General.   

The GPS, now in its fifth year, is proving a useful tool to improve chemicals management not only for chemical manufacturing companies but also those throughout the value chain and national authorities.