ACA and the WCC: An Update on Global Regulatory Developments

As an advocate and voice for the coatings industry, the American Coatings Association engages with regulatory agencies and legislators at the federal, state, and local levels in the areas of air quality, environmental requirements, chemicals management, occupational safety and health, and sustainability. In the global arena, ACA monitors and tracks these same issues, conducting its advocacy under the umbrella of the World Coatings Council (WCC) and its members.The WCC is a network of trade associations for the paint and coatings industry in nations around the world. It provides a forum for the exchange of information and cooperation on major issues and priorities facing the industry. Founded in the early 1990s, the WCC established itself as a global voice for the industry. The council was established to ensure that the industry, in coordinating the development of policy on international issues, fully discussed and analyzed global implications. When legislative or regulatory issues arise around the globe, usually the nation where the issue originates will become the lead advocate for the paint industry. ACA, WCC, and other council members will provide technical and strategic assistance to the nation’s trade association that is most knowledgeable about the domestic paint industry and the regulatory agency. This frame- work allows the global industry to participate in the advocacy effort and impact the course of the issue.