Phase out persistent, bioaccumulative or highly toxic chemicals.
Chemicals such as lindane, lead compounds, and some brominated flame retardants and organophosphate pesticides are examples of persistent, bio-accumulative, and/or highly toxic chemicals that continue to be used in commerce, although strong evidence exists that they pose threats to human and ecosystem health. These and other chemicals, by virtue of their characteristics, are very difficult to manage without unacceptable threats to workers, the environment, or ecosystems. Chemicals that cannot be safely managed should be prioritized for phase out. A transparent process to further identify and prioritize the list of chemicals for phase out is needed. With few exceptions, the U.S. government lacks the authority or an efficient policy instrument to prevent these high-priority chemicals from being used in products and processes or released to the environment. It also has been very difficult for state and local governments to restrict these chemicals. Policy instruments to efficiently and effectively phase out problematic chemicals are needed at all levels of government.
Easthope
Tracey
T
Environmental Health Director, Ecology Center, 117 N. Division St., Ann Arbor, MI 48104, USA. tracey@ecocenter.org
Valeriano
Laurie
L
D002617:Chemical Industry / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D003226:Congresses as Topic; D004782:Environmental Health / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence / Q000458:organization & administration; D004784:Environmental Monitoring; D035082:Federal Government; D015386:Hazardous Substances / Q000600:supply & distribution* / Q000633:toxicity; D007391:International Cooperation; D009111:Local Government; D011050:Policy Making; D013219:State Government; D014481:United States
D015386:Hazardous Substances