How the COVID-19 pandemic can impact chemicals and wastes in Ukraine

"How the COVID-19 pandemic can impact chemicals and waste in the Ukraine,” produced by the NGO Chemical Safety Agency, demonstrates the rapid increase in the use of disinfectants and antiseptics during the COVID-19 pandemic in Ukraine, and also the rapid increase in waste, specifically plastic waste (used personal protective equipment; used disposable instruments; used plastic containers; and bags and containers for food and drinks, because during the pandemic takeaway food sales are sharply increasing, etc.), which also contains hazardous chemicals. Disinfectants, antiseptics and handwashing products recommended for use by WHO and national services during the COVID-19 pandemic to reduce the spread of COVID-19 may contain a number of chemicals ingredients. Some of these ingredients: are known to be toxic; contain unregulated / uncontrolled chemicals; contain chemicals that may not be approved for use in consumer products.

During the project, the content of 100 items of skin cleaning products available on the Ukrainian market was analysed (based on the information indicated on the labels). Skin cleansers and antibacterial products may contain active ingredients that are either known to be toxic or are not controlled or regulated in Ukraine. The study identified 7 of the most common toxic ingredients used generally in skin cleaning products according to the ChemSec Sin List or the EU Endocrine Disruptor List.

The project also studied waste management regulations in the Ukraine and provided recommendations for the effective management of chemicals and medical waste.

This project relates to Sustainable Development Goals #3, 6, 12 and 14.

Special thanks to IPEN's Eastern Europe, Caucasus, and Central Asia (EECCA) Regional Coordinator Dr. Olga Speranskaya and EECCA Regional Hub Eco-Accord for their important contributions to the development and finalization of the project.