This is supported by several chemical industry associations, as well as by the OPCW, its Member States (separately) and various related organisations, such as the European Chemical Industry Council.
There are many who find this policy of the OPCW dangerous to the environment and see the organisation becoming more of an “OPCI” (“Organisation for the Promotion of the Chemical Industry”) - but there is a rationale for the OPCW’s cooperation with the chemical industry.
There are many who find this policy of the OPCW dangerous to the environment and see the organisation becoming more of an “OPCI” (“Organisation for the Promotion of the Chemical Industry”) - but there is a rationale for the OPCW’s cooperation with the chemical industry.
The Chemical Weapons Convention has separated chemicals into three categories - called “Schedules” – in order to clarify their potential for harm.
Schedule 1 are those chemicals which are either chemical weapons in themselves or so closely related as to be considered potential weapons. Obvious examples are sarin and mustard gas.
Schedule 2 are chemicals which can be used to make chemical weapons but which have a primarily peaceful industrial use. These are not produced on a large scale and common sense prohibits their disclosure.
Schedule 1 are those chemicals which are either chemical weapons in themselves or so closely related as to be considered potential weapons. Obvious examples are sarin and mustard gas.
Schedule 2 are chemicals which can be used to make chemical weapons but which have a primarily peaceful industrial use. These are not produced on a large scale and common sense prohibits their disclosure.
Schedule 3 chemicals are toxic chemicals which can be used to make chemical weapons but which are produced to make many everyday products, such as oil, cement, cloth and paper.
Another category “Discrete Organic Chemicals” (DOCs) are also subject to declaration and verification by inspection, due to the fact that production sites could also be used for chemical weapons.
DOCs and the three Schedules are strictly licensed and monitored by the OPCW.
It is obvious that without the full support of the chemical industry, the main purpose of the OPCW would be severely endangered.
Another category “Discrete Organic Chemicals” (DOCs) are also subject to declaration and verification by inspection, due to the fact that production sites could also be used for chemical weapons.
DOCs and the three Schedules are strictly licensed and monitored by the OPCW.
It is obvious that without the full support of the chemical industry, the main purpose of the OPCW would be severely endangered.