Burlington, VT – This morning Seventh Generation’s CEO John Replogle and VPIRG’s Paul Burns convened a panel to discuss how statewide toxics regulations is not only good for Vermonters, but also for the environment, Vermont businesses and the Vermont brand.
Other panelists included Sarah Vose, Ph.D., State Toxicologist, VT Department of Health and Ann Pugh, Chair of the House Committee on Human Services.
The federal Toxic Substances Control Act of 1976 is failing to protect Vermonters from harmful chemicals in consumer products. Few chemicals have been tested for safety, and chemicals known to harm human health continue to be found in people’s bodies, homes, and our natural environment. Vermont has regulated individual toxic chemicals, and now seeks to implement a program to more systematically assess the chemicals of highest concern, identify which products sold in Vermont contain these chemicals, and quickly phase the worst chemicals out of use in consumer products. California, Maine and Washington have passed similar statewide toxic chemical legislation.
Replogle urged other Vermont businesses to support the proposed legislation that will be under consideration at the State House this legislative session, noting that the reform would create more competitive, innovative, and economically sustainable industries.
“As business leaders in the state of Vermont, we need to make sure that we’re thinking about protecting our own, the citizens of Vermont, from toxic chemical exposure,” said Replogle. “By supporting this proposed legislation, we’ll yet again assert our leadership as the Green Mountain State, an incubator for socially responsible business.”
If you are a business owner and support toxic chemical reform like John, please take a moment to endorse our petition today!