In a move aimed at prioritizing public health, the EPA has enacted a ban on two solvents heavily used in the dry-cleaning industry, which have been linked to serious health risks.
EPA Implements Historic Ban on Harmful Solvents in Dry Cleaning
EPA Implements Historic Ban on Harmful Solvents in Dry Cleaning
New regulations target cancer-causing chemicals to improve public health and safety.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) made waves on Monday by announcing a significant ban on two hazardous solvents commonly utilized in various industries, including dry cleaning. Advocates in the health and environmental sectors have lauded the decision for addressing long-standing safety concerns, though it comes at a time when many speculate about potential rollbacks under the soon-to-be-inaugurated administration.
Trichloroethylene, or TCE, has presented serious health challenges for residents near industrial sites, as prolonged exposure can lead to multiple forms of cancer, including liver and kidney cancer. Its notorious reputation was further solidified by a popular 1995 legal drama, “A Civil Action,” brought to life by John Travolta. Recognizing the public health threat, the EPA has announced an outright ban on TCE’s use in consumer products as part of the Toxic Substances Control Act, which has been reinforced since its 2016 update.
Additionally, the agency has restricted the use of perchloroethylene, or Perc, which is frequently employed in dry cleaning and other consumer products. While Perc poses lower risks than TCE, it is still linked to several types of cancer and organ damage. Fortunately, the EPA has allowed for certain industrial applications of Perc in high-stakes sectors such as aviation and defense, provided strict worker protections are enforced.
“We cannot allow cancer-causing chemicals to persist in products like dry cleaning solutions when alternatives are available,” stated Michal Freedhoff, assistant administrator for the EPA Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention. These sweeping changes mark a pivotal moment in safeguarding public health against harmful industrial practices, in a rapidly evolving regulatory landscape.
Trichloroethylene, or TCE, has presented serious health challenges for residents near industrial sites, as prolonged exposure can lead to multiple forms of cancer, including liver and kidney cancer. Its notorious reputation was further solidified by a popular 1995 legal drama, “A Civil Action,” brought to life by John Travolta. Recognizing the public health threat, the EPA has announced an outright ban on TCE’s use in consumer products as part of the Toxic Substances Control Act, which has been reinforced since its 2016 update.
Additionally, the agency has restricted the use of perchloroethylene, or Perc, which is frequently employed in dry cleaning and other consumer products. While Perc poses lower risks than TCE, it is still linked to several types of cancer and organ damage. Fortunately, the EPA has allowed for certain industrial applications of Perc in high-stakes sectors such as aviation and defense, provided strict worker protections are enforced.
“We cannot allow cancer-causing chemicals to persist in products like dry cleaning solutions when alternatives are available,” stated Michal Freedhoff, assistant administrator for the EPA Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention. These sweeping changes mark a pivotal moment in safeguarding public health against harmful industrial practices, in a rapidly evolving regulatory landscape.
