Chemical Regulation at a Crossroads: Navigating Misinformation and Industry Influence

Université Paris Cité, Faculté de Droit, d’Économie et de Gestion, Amphithéâtre Janet, 10 avenue Pierre Larousse - 92240 Malakoff

In this lecture with Jessica Coria (Visiting Faculty at the French Economic Observatory, Sciences Po & Professor, Aarhus University), we will explore the critical challenges facing chemical regulation today, focusing on the pervasive issues of incomplete or misleading data and the influence of industry lobbying.

Incomplete or Misleading Data: Environmental regulators face significant challenges due to the “data gap,” a lack of sufficient scientific information on the vast and growing number of chemicals. Moreover, biases in scientific studies imply that some of the available data is misrepresented. Publication bias and career concerns favours overestimation of hazardousness in academia, while industry-sponsored research tends to underestimate it, often downplaying adverse effects. These data gaps and biases can lead to flawed regulatory decisions. We will discuss how such biases can distort policy outcomes, highlighting the importance of independent research and comprehensive data transparency through real-world examples.

Lobbying and Industry Influence: We will explore the various ways chemical manufacturers influence regulatory processes through political lobbying and research findings. These efforts often aim to shape regulations in a manner favorable to industry interests. By examining the implications of such lobbying, we will uncover potential conflicts of interest and discuss how they can impact public trust and safety.

By understanding these dynamics, we can work towards enhancing regulatory frameworks to better balance public health, environmental safety, and industry interests.

The presentation will be followed by a discussion led by Thomas Sterner, Professor, University of Gothenburg

This event is part of the Visiting Faculty program, which is implemented through the Université Paris Cité - Sciences Po partnership.