Sustainable Chemistry

Sustainable chemistry, also known as “green chemistry,” is the design of chemical products and processes that reduce or eliminate hazardous substances through reducing waste products, using non-toxic components, and improving efficiency. Sustainable chemistry applies across the life cycle of a chemical product, including its design, manufacture, and use.

The human and environmental safety of CHPA member companies' OTC medicines is strictly regulated under the federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act and enforced by FDA, covering the same risks and hazards as green chemistry regulations. CHPA encourages exemptions from sustainable chemistry laws for products approved by FDA to avoid conflicting and duplicative requirements.