Toxics & Environmental Health

Over 5,000 children’s products contain toxic chemicals linked to cancer, hormone disruption, and reproductive problems according to reports filed with the Washington State Department of Ecology (Ecology). An analysis of the reports by the Washington Toxics Coalition and Safer States found that makers of kids’ products reported using a total of 41 chemicals identified by Ecology as a concern for children’s health, including toxic metals such as cadmium, mercury, and antimony, and organic compounds such as phthalates.

An Agency of Natural Resources-commissioned Bottle Bill study is expected out this Friday which, despite the program’s overwhelming popularity and undisputed success, is likely to prompt a renewed debate over the future of the program. Bottle Bill supporters directly impacted by the legislature’s actions – including small businesses and community groups – gathered at the State House on Thursday to make sure their voices are heard.

Firefighters, parents, public health advocates, and legislators gathered at the State House today to call on the legislature to pass a bill (S.81) to expand the state’s 2009 ban on toxic flame retardant chemicals. These chemicals are widely used in baby products and furniture, but are linked to cancer, neurotoxicity, reproductive harm, and other negative health impacts. Further, studies show they don’t actually protect us from fires.

Vermont’s “green cleaning” legislation—which VPIRG helped to pass last year—earned national attention in a new report released today, entitled: “Towards Healthy Schools 2015: Progress on America’s Environmental Health Crisis for Children.”  This report shows Vermont is now on the forefront of keeping our kids’ learning environments safe from toxic chemicals. You can find the full report …

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