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Advancing policy to require safer alternatives
In early 2007, the Department of Homeland Security issued weak regulations on the matter—failing to use its powers to rein in these toxic risks. Members of Congress are now looking to re-introduce an Environment America-backed chemical security bill that would require high risk facilities to adopt safer alternatives, where feasible. Stay tuned for details.
What's at stake
Industry’s widespread use of toxic chemicals is threatening our environment. Chemicals sprayed on laptops and mattresses are now found in orcas and peregrine falcons. Mercury is contaminating fish across the nation. And scientists are finding these same toxins in our bodies as well.
Fortunately, there are safer alternatives to many toxic chemicals. Machines can be cleaned without caustic solvents, drinking water can be purified without chlorine gas, and paper can be made without dioxin pollution. And with the advent of green chemistry, we could soon have the innovations to shift major production lines from petrochemicals to bio-based materials. But it will take strong policies to move industry to change its ways. Environment America spearheaded the first wave of state laws aimed at reducing the use toxic substances. Now, we’re advancing national policies to replace dangerous chemicals with safer alternatives.
