The chemical industry is critical for sustainable development because of its primary role in the production
processes of so many industries. Perhaps the greatest challenge to the industry is the design of chemical
products that do not bioaccumulate or create long-term and subtle effects such as endocrine disruption that
are only now starting to be recognized. The other great challenge is to achieve zero discharge of production
wastes. Sustainable development also includes practices that enhance community welfare and protect natural
resources such as forests, which in the long run lead to a better business environment.