New EPA Ban: Two Chemicals Are Now Off-Limits

Traffic sign with the word BAN against sky

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has taken decisive action to ban cancer-causing chemicals commonly used in dry cleaning and other industries, marking a significant step in protecting public health.

At a Glance

EPA bans trichloroethylene (TCE) and perchloroethylene (Perc) due to cancer risks
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
Bans allow for certain industrial uses with strict worker protection rules
Move aligns with President Biden’s Cancer Moonshot initiative

EPA Takes Action Against Harmful Chemicals

The Environmental Protection Agency has announced a ban on two hazardous chemicals widely used in dry cleaning and other industries. Trichloroethylene (TCE) and perchloroethylene (Perc) have been prohibited due to their cancer-causing properties and associated health risks. This decision comes as part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to protecting public health and reducing exposure to toxic substances.

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 concerns about widespread exposure. 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

Balancing Safety and Industry Needs

While the ban on TCE is comprehensive, the restrictions on Perc allow for certain industrial uses, such as in aviation and defense sectors. However, these exceptions come with stringent worker protection rules to minimize exposure risks. The EPA’s approach aims to strike a balance between public health concerns and essential industrial applications where safer alternatives may not be readily available.

According to Michal Freedhoff, Assistant Administrator for the EPA Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention: “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.”

This statement from Freedhoff underscores the agency’s commitment to prioritizing public health when safer options are available. The ban is implemented under the Toxic Substances Control Act, which was strengthened in 2016 to grant the EPA more authority in regulating harmful chemicals.

Implications for Industries and Consumers

The new regulations will have far-reaching effects on various industries, particularly dry cleaning businesses that have long relied on Perc. The EPA has announced plans to provide compliance guidance and host public webinars to assist affected businesses in transitioning to safer alternatives. Additionally, President Biden’s Fiscal Year 2025 budget includes funding to support small businesses in adapting to these new regulations.

Massachusetts Senator Ed Markey said, “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.”

This ban is not just a regulatory change but represents a significant victory for environmental and public health advocates who have long campaigned against these harmful chemicals. The EPA’s decision aligns with President Biden’s Cancer Moonshot initiative, aiming to reduce the cancer burden through various means, including reducing exposure to carcinogenic substances.

Looking Ahead: Broader Implications

The EPA’s action on TCE and Perc is part of a broader federal effort to regulate long-used chemicals that pose risks to consumers and the environment. This initiative may pave the way for further restrictions on other potentially harmful substances, such as the proposed ban on Red Dye No. 3, a food coloring linked to cancer in animals and hyperactivity in children.

As industries adapt to these new regulations, consumers can expect to see changes in products and services, particularly in the dry cleaning sector. The transition to safer alternatives may lead to innovations in cleaning technologies and practices, ultimately benefiting public health while challenging businesses to evolve their operations.