Scientific society launches project to phase out lead in paint

AMMAN — The Royal Scientific Society, in cooperation with UN Environment, on Wednesday, launched a project to gradually phase out lead in paint.

This project is part of a Global Environment Facility-supported programme titled “Global best practices on emerging chemicals policy issues of concern”, according to The Jordan Times.

Since exposure to lead can cause serious health issues, especially in children, the project aims to provide companies with the Royal Scientific Society’s Cleaner Production Unit and EU experts’ technical support.

The companies will be given support to produce paint within the targeted limits of lead compounds and at acceptable financial costs to maintain competitiveness, according to the statement.

Four national companies will be selected and guided by the technical support manual prepared by paint experts in the EU.

According to the statement, Jordan was selected among a number other countries for the project’s implementation, which will be done by a number of international agencies including UN Environment, the Strategic Approach to International Chemicals Management, the World Health Organisation, the US Environmental Protection Agency and the International POPs Elimination Network.