According to the U. N. Environment Program, good management of chemicals could p

The United Nations is calling for urgent action to reduce the growing health and environmental hazards from exposure to chemical substances.(23)A new study—"Global Chemicals Outlook"—by the U. N. Environment Program finds sound management of chemicals could save millions of lives and provide an economic benefit to nations worldwide.
    The report presents a Stark view of a world that is overwhelmed by increased volumes of chemicals.(24)The most frightening aspect is that very little is known about the estimated 143,000 chemicals being produced. The U. N. Environment Program says only a fraction of these chemicals have been evaluated to determine their effects on human health and the environment. Chemicals are pervasive in every aspect of life. The report says they are used in agriculture, electronics and mining. They are found in products such as paints, adhesives, textiles and toys for children.