CHEM Trust

Protecting humans and wildlife from harmful chemicals

DEHP

IT’S A NO BRAINER! Action needed to stop children being exposed to chemicals that harm their brain development!

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A report published today by CHEM Trust highlights how chemicals in food and consumer products used in homes, schools and offices could harm brain development in children. The impacts – which may include ADHD and lower IQ - are avoidable and can prevent children reaching their full potential says CHEM Trust, in No Brainer: The impact of chemicals on children’s brain … [Read more...] about IT’S A NO BRAINER! Action needed to stop children being exposed to chemicals that harm their brain development!

Dust: Not only a nuisance, but also a source of hazardous chemicals

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We spend up to 90% of our time indoors – in our homes, our offices or at school. However, studies show that indoor air can be more polluted and therefore worse for our health than air outdoors, as indoor air and dust can contain a number of worrying harmful chemical pollutants. Children, particularly babies and toddlers playing on floors, are specifically  vulnerable to … [Read more...] about Dust: Not only a nuisance, but also a source of hazardous chemicals

New US study finds fast food consumption associated with exposures to phthalates

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New research, published today finds that people in the US who eat more fast food have higher levels of certain phthalate chemicals in their urine. The chemicals found, DEHP and DINP, are used as plasticisers in PVC plastics, and their use is partially restricted in Europe due to health concerns; they are also hormone (endocrine) disrupters. … [Read more...] about New US study finds fast food consumption associated with exposures to phthalates

New EU circular economy plan aims to promote non-toxic material cycles

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The European Commission has today launched a new set of policies on the Circular Economy. Many environmental groups are rightly criticising a weakening in many areas, including recycling targets. However, the new 'Closing the loop' Action Plan does include a plan to analyse and propose options in order "to reduce the presence and improve the tracking of chemicals of concern in … [Read more...] about New EU circular economy plan aims to promote non-toxic material cycles

REACH helps the circular economy clean up, facilitating sustainable recycling

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On 24th March I took part in an event in Brussels, organised by EurActiv, discussing the relationship between the REACH chemicals regulations and the Circular Economy, in particular the interaction between REACH & recycling. The other panelists included representatives of the European Commission (both DG Environment and DG Growth), the plastic pipe industry and an MEP, Paul … [Read more...] about REACH helps the circular economy clean up, facilitating sustainable recycling

Health impacts from hormone disrupting chemicals cost EU countries billions

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New research, published today, finds that the costs across the EU of exposure to hormone disrupting chemicals could be over €150 billion annually in health care expenses and lost earning potential. Chemicals with hormone (or endocrine) disrupting properties (EDCs) are present in many everyday products and are frequently used as pesticides, but industry lobbying has delayed EU … [Read more...] about Health impacts from hormone disrupting chemicals cost EU countries billions

Replacing chemicals with safer alternatives – or protecting dirty industry? (updated)

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The EU's REACH system for regulating chemicals was supposed to bring with it a significant improvement in protection of people and the environment from toxic chemicals. But is it delivering? The latest developments in the debate over alternatives to the phthalate DEHP, used in PVC products, suggest that there are some serious problems. … [Read more...] about Replacing chemicals with safer alternatives – or protecting dirty industry? (updated)