A key driver for the adoption of green chemistry by product manufacturers is the combination of consumer products discosure and testing, and promotion of progressive chemical policies by companies.
The combination of these efforts can lead to growing support from chemical end users for fundamental changes in how chemicals are designed which end up in their products. This presentation will highlight original product test data including analysis of trends in the use of halogenated chemicals, PVC, lead, and heavy metals in consumer products with emphasis on relevance to public health. The presentation will also illustrate how the products disclosure facilitates the adoption comprehensive chemicals policy. The Ecology Center employed XRF methodology in extensive testing for hazardous chemicals contained in plastic components of over 700 domestic and imported 2006-2010 model year cars, in 130 children’s car seats, and 5,000 (2007-2010) children’s products including toys. In total, the database contains over 25,000 tests and 677,000 data points. Handheld and non-destructive X-ray Fluorescence Spectroscopy (XRF) yields data of most elements at ppm and higher levels with good correlation to time consuming and destructive traditional analytical techniques.
Methodologies to translate the test data into a relative product rating system have been developed and published for consumer use (see HealthyStuff.org). The Ecology Center also has worked with the Business-NGO Rountable to develop principles for comprehensive chemicals policy. These principles are promoted as a more comprehensive approach for manufacturers to adopt in response to disclosure of chemical hazards in their products.