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| We worked phase out toxic flame retardants to clean up Puget Sound. |
Recently...Advancing policy to require safer alternativesIn 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 stakeIndustry’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. |
Take it to the next levelShare your story. We'd love to hear what you have to say about the issues facing our environment. Click here.Your gift goes a long way
Join Environment America!Recent actions and resultsThis spring, Environment Washington and allies persuaded policy-makers
in Olympia to pass a law phasing
out deca-BDE—a toxic chemical used in everything from laptops to
mattresses. Increasing evidence shows that PBDEs are threatening both wildlife and human health, and with our victory Washington became the first state to tackle the dangers of deca. A
CLOSER LOOKClick here for more on our work for toxic-free communities. |
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