The American Chemistry Council (ACC) has announced the formation of the Center for Advancing Risk Assessment Science and Policy (ARASP). The Center will work to accelerate the development, evaluation, and use of the latest science methodologies and policies as part of the ACC’s commitment to the use of best available science as the foundation for risk assessments.

The Center will be housed under ACC’s Chemical Products and Technology Div. and will operate as a self-funded group.

“There is a pressing need to accelerate the use of advanced methods and up-to-date scientific knowledge in chemical risk assessments,” said Todd Abel, ARASP manager. “The Center is looking to expand membership and we welcome new members who are interested in risk assessment science and policy issues. To ensure coordination and increase effectiveness of the Center’s efforts to improve risk assessment scientific practices and policies, ACC’s Dr. Richard Becker will actively participate as one of the key thought leaders of the Center.”

Americans need and deserve a regulatory system that reflects the scientific knowledge and technological innovations achieved over the last 30 years-–a system that is built upon a firm scientific foundation-–a foundation that supports risk-based product stewardship and regulatory decisions which enhance protection of human health and the environment. But there are many challenges to implementing up-to-date risk assessment methods. The Center will address these challenges by fostering activities to promote adoption of policies and practices--both within and outside government--that actualize advances that have been made in understanding on how chemicals act at the molecular, cellular, and organ levels.

For more information, visit www.americanchemistry.com.