| Toxic chemicals in the blood |
|
|
|
| Monday, 07 July 2008 | |
|
 A total of 55 toxic chemicals were found in the blood of Ministers tested. The 55 toxic chemicals found in the blood of ministers representing 53% of 103 products sought from 7 different groups. The average of chemicals in the blood of each minister tested stood at 37, the highest number of products detected in one person being 43 and the lowest of 33. 25 of the same products were found in the blood of all ministers: 1 flame retardant, 2 types of pesticides and 22 PolyChloroBiphenyle (PCBs). The ministers are all contaminated with toxic industrial chemicals whose effects are still largely unknown, alarmed Karl Wagner, director of the WWF DetoX Campaign. According to WWF, While 86% of 2 500 chemicals used in large quantities are not safety related information that can establish a baseline assessment on the subject, research linking more and more products to these cancers , Allergies, reproductive problems and abnormal development in children. The initiative of the environmental organization aims to put pressure on European Union, which is currently discussing the draft directive (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization of Chemicals (REACH)) very controversial approval of chemicals.
The main features of REACH  Producers and importers will demonstrate in a registration dossier they manage their chemicals in a safe way. Companies will be required to register all substances produced or imported in quantities equal to or greater than one tonne per year per manufacturer or importer in a central database managed by the independent agency to be created.The intrinsic properties of each substance and the risks represented (physical and chemical properties, toxicological and ecotoxicological). The animal experiments must be kept to a minimum and costs will be reduced through sharing of existing data; The uses and opportunities and conditions for contact with people and / or the environment; The assessment of risks to human health and the environment; A statement on how the producers or users manage the risks associated with the use of the substance. For chemicals produced in small quantities (less than 100 tons per year) and does not arousing concerns, registration will be sufficient. The registration data will be examined by the competent authorities of Member States. A standard evaluation is mandatory for substances in quantities exceeding 100 tons and its main objective is to reduce animal testing. Member States will also have the opportunity to evaluate any substance and request information or additional testing in case of doubt on the potential risks or quality of the registration dossier. The most dangerous substances are monitored, their use is subject to prior authorization. This authorization will allow specific uses under specific conditions. Companies seeking a permit must show they can adequately control the risks posed by chemical or socio-economic benefits of the substance are more important than the risks. The possibilities of substitution will also be discussed. |
|
| Last Updated ( Wednesday, 18 February 2009 ) |
| < Prev | Next > |
|---|