Responsible Care: The Chemical Industry's Commitment to Sustainability and Safety

For over three decades, the American Chemistry Council's (ACC) Responsible Care initiative has been at the forefront of the chemical industry's efforts to enhance its environmental, health, safety, and security (EHS&S) performance. Since its launch in the U.S. in 1988, Responsible Care has established itself as the global chemical industry's leading safety and sustainability initiative, driving continual improvement and supporting innovative practices throughout the entire life cycle of chemicals.

Origins of Responsible Care

The Responsible Care program was first launched in Canada in 1985 as a response to growing public concerns about the chemical industry's environmental credentials. The initiative was later adopted in the U.S. in 1988, with the ACC playing a key role in its implementation. Today, Responsible Care is practiced by chemical companies in 67 countries worldwide, encompassing nearly 90% of global chemical production.

Implementation of Responsible Care

At the heart of Responsible Care is a commitment to excellence in EHS&S performance. The initiative provides a framework for companies to achieve this excellence by implementing rigorous management systems, third-party verification, and ongoing performance reporting. Participation in Responsible Care is a condition of membership for ACC members, demonstrating their dedication to strong leadership in EHS&S.

Companies implementing Responsible Care must adhere to a set of guiding principles. These include a commitment to lead ethically that benefits society, the economy, and the environment and to design and develop products that can be safely manufactured, transported, used, disposed of, or recycled. Implementing the Responsible Care Management System, based on a "Policy-Plan-Do-Check-Act" philosophy, is mandatory for all ACC regular members and Responsible Care Partners.

Impact of Responsible Care

Responsible Care has had a significant impact on the chemical industry's EHS&S performance. Since 2010, Responsible Care facilities within the ACC membership have reduced hazardous air pollutant (HAP) emissions by approximately 26%. Additionally, ACC member companies have achieved a 20% reduction in recordable injury and illness rates since 2010, demonstrating the program's effectiveness in improving worker safety.

The Responsible Care Awards Program, established by the ACC, recognizes chemical industry leaders who have made an exceptional commitment to EHS&S performance, sustainability, and the principles of Responsible Care. These awards highlight the innovative practices and outstanding performance of companies that embody the spirit of Responsible Care.

Companies Embracing Responsible Care

Numerous companies across the chemical industry have embraced the principles of Responsible Care and made significant commitments to implementing the initiative. Arkema Inc., for example, has established a Responsible Care management system to manage its business by the guiding principles of Responsible Care.

Similarly, Dow has made a long-standing commitment to Responsible Care, recognizing the initiative's importance in safely handling products from inception in the lab through manufacture, distribution, reuse, and disposal.

Benefits of Implementing Responsible Care

The benefits of implementing Responsible Care extend beyond improved EHS&S performance. Companies participating in the initiative can gain improved efficiencies in facility operations, enhanced transparency, and a platform to demonstrate their commitment to responsible and sustainable practices. Implementing Responsible Care practices can also yield many business benefits, such as energy efficiency, reduced emissions, and improved waste management.

Over two decades of practicing the Responsible Care Code Management System has shown reductions in operating costs, improved stakeholder relationships, legal compliance, improved risk management, and enhanced customer satisfaction and safety. By embracing the principles and practices of Responsible Care, chemical companies can shape their sustainability journey and demonstrate their commitment to the safe, responsible, and sustainable management of chemicals throughout their entire life cycle.

Conclusion

Responsible Care represents a robust commitment by the chemical industry to excellence in environmental, health, safety, and security performance. Through its robust framework and guiding principles, Responsible Care provides a roadmap for companies to improve the safe management of chemicals continuously. As the industry continues to evolve and face new challenges, the principles of Responsible Care will remain a cornerstone of its efforts to build a more sustainable future.