The conference will begin with a panel discussion on new regulatory approaches and product testing in the chemical industry. Speakers will address changes in the relationship among the government, chemical industry, and non-government organizations during the past three decades. Specifically, the discussion will focus on the areas of high-production volume testing (HPV) and endocrine disruptor testing as examples of a recent shift toward greater collaboration between industry and the government. An open forum with questions from the audience will follow the panel discussion.

During the second day, formal presentations and discussions will address a series of interrelated questions. What factors led to government regulatory control over chemical, pharmaceutical, and agricultural industries? How have relations between industry and the government evolved during the 20th century? How can corporations better engage with the public and pursue policies of openness and democratic representation while staying competitive in global markets? Talks by scholars working in this area will describe changes in the division of authority between industry and government, the rise/resurgence of self-regulatory initiatives, and examples of collaboration among otherwise competing stakeholders in the chemical, pharmaceutical, and agricultural sectors.

Logistics & Details:
5 April 2002: Panel Discussion, 3:00 – 5:00 pm (reception follows)
6 April 2002: Conference, 9:00 am – 6:00 pm (reception follows)
Location: Chemical Heritage Foundation
315 Chestnut Street
Philadelphia, PA 19106