Flame Retardant Added To California's List of Cancer-Causing Chemicals

"In a victory for environmentalists, a flame retardant common in furniture and baby products was officially listed yesterday by the state as a cancer-causing chemical."



"Although the chemical, chlorinated Tris, was banned from children's pajamas in the 1970s, it recently experienced a resurgence in furniture foam. Today, it is the nation's most commonly used flame retardant in furniture and baby products.

'The listing of chlorinated Tris on Prop. 65 is a public health victory,'said Sarah Janssen, senior scientist for the Natural Resources Defense Council. 'Widespread exposure to this chemical, now officially identified as a cancer-causing chemical, is a threat to vulnerable populations. This listing should result in labeling requirements for products that contain dangerous levels of this chemical.'"

Susanne Rust reports for California Watch October 13, 2011.

 

Source: California Watch, 10/14/2011