EPA Takes Action: Toxic Chemicals Banned in Dry Cleaning Products

Traffic sign with the word BAN against sky

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has banned two cancer-causing chemicals commonly used in dry cleaning and consumer products, marking a significant step in protecting public health.

At a Glance

EPA bans trichloroethylene (TCE) and perchloroethylene (Perc) due to cancer-causing properties
TCE is linked to liver cancer, kidney cancer, and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma
Perc, used in dry-cleaning, can cause various cancers and organ damage
Ban allows limited industrial uses with strict worker protection rules
Move aligns with Biden’s Cancer Moonshot initiative to end cancer

EPA Takes Action Against Harmful Chemicals

The Environmental Protection Agency has taken a decisive step to protect public health by banning two widely used chemicals known for their cancer-causing properties. Trichloroethylene (TCE) and perchloroethylene (Perc) have been prohibited from use in most consumer products and dry cleaning processes. This action comes as part of the EPA’s broader efforts to eliminate harmful exposures from chemicals in everyday items.

TCE, commonly found in cleaners, spot removers, lubricants, and glue, has been linked to liver cancer, kidney cancer, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, and damage to the nervous and immune systems. The chemical has been detected in drinking water sources across the nation, raising significant public health concerns. Perc, primarily used in dry-cleaning and automotive-care products, is associated with liver, kidney, brain, and testicular cancer, as well as damage to various organ systems.

EPA bans 2 chemicals in dry-cleaning products known to cause cancer https://t.co/UA0qAkldPW

— Live5News (@Live5News) December 9, 2024

Implementing the Ban and Its Implications

The ban on these chemicals is being implemented under the Toxic Substances Control Act, which was strengthened in 2016 to grant the EPA more authority in regulating harmful substances. While the ban is comprehensive for TCE, it allows for certain industrial uses of Perc, such as in aviation and defense, provided strict worker protection rules are followed.

“It’s simply unacceptable to continue to allow cancer-causing chemicals to be used for things like glue, dry cleaning or stain removers when safer alternatives exist,” said Michal Freedhoff, Assistant Administrator for the Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention.

This statement underscores the EPA’s commitment to public safety and the availability of safer alternatives for most uses of TCE and Perc. The agency’s final rule includes stringent worker protections and a Workplace Chemical Protection Plan for remaining uses, aiming to safeguard both workers and communities from exposure.

Broader Implications and Future Steps

The EPA’s action is part of a larger federal initiative to regulate long-used chemicals affecting consumers. This includes potential bans on certain food dyes, such as Red Dye No. 3, which has been linked to health issues in research studies. The move aligns with President Biden’s Cancer Moonshot initiative, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to reducing cancer risks through environmental policy.

Senator Ed Markey, a Massachusetts Democrat, had this to say: “Over 40 years ago, a mother named Anne Anderson from Woburn, Massachusetts, approached me and started a crusade to keep any more children like Jimmy Anderson, her son, from dying from cancer caused by toxic chemicals. Anne’s work directly led to this announcement from the Environmental Protection Agency that I am overjoyed to celebrate today alongside her and every community that stands to benefit—a finalized ban on trichloroethylene and most uses of perchloroethylene, two chemicals that cause cancer, affect reproductive systems, are neurotoxic, and compromise immune systems.”

To support the transition, the EPA will provide compliance guidance and host public webinars on the new rules. Additionally, President Biden’s Fiscal Year 2025 budget includes funding to assist small businesses in adapting to TSCA-compliant practices. This comprehensive approach aims to protect public health while supporting affected industries in their transition to safer alternatives.