EPA Prohibits Two Common Cancer-Causing Chemicals
The prohibition limits the application of trichloroethylene (TCE) and perchloroethylene (PCE), two harmful organic solvents that can be utilized interchangeably.
On Monday, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a finalized ban on two chemicals recognized for their carcinogenic potential, which are found in various commercial and industrial products.
The prohibition limits the application of trichloroethylene (TCE) and perchloroethylene (PCE), two harmful organic solvents that can be utilized interchangeably.
Designated as “extremely toxic” by the EPA, TCE can inflict damage upon the central nervous system, liver, kidneys, immune system, and reproductive organs even in minimal concentrations. The agency noted that the chemical is linked to liver cancer, kidney cancer, and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
TCE is utilized as a solvent in a range of consumer products, including cleaning solutions, furniture care items, degreasers, sealants, lubricants, adhesives, paints, and arts and crafts spray coatings. The EPA claims that safer alternatives are readily accessible for most of these applications.
PCE, commonly referred to as “perc,” is a widely used chemical for dry cleaning fabrics, and is also employed as an automotive brake cleaner. It is a known risk factor for liver, kidney, brain, and testicular cancer, and poses toxicity risks to the nervous, reproductive, and immune systems, as well as to the kidneys and liver.
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As per the EPA, PCE can decompose into the highly toxic TCE, and PCE may harbor trace amounts of TCE as an impurity.
For specific applications where TCE is banned, PCE may still be utilized as an alternative under strict conditions. Examples of such exceptions include the industrial and commercial use of PCE as an energized electrical cleaner, laboratory applications for asphalt testing and recovery, and the production of environmentally friendly refrigerants.
Senator Ed Markey (D-Mass.) has been advocating for a ban on TCE ever since he was approached 40 years prior by a mother named Anne Anderson after her son died from cancer linked to toxic chemicals.
“Anne’s advocacy has directly contributed to this announcement from the Environmental Protection Agency, which I am thrilled to celebrate today alongside her and all communities that will benefit from this decision,” Markey expressed.
From NTD News
