NGOs call for immediate substitution of Endocrine Disrupters

Fertility difficulties, obesity, diabetes, premature breast developments, malformed reproductive organs… these are some of the potential effects of 'endocrine disrupters' (substances which can interfere with the hormonal system) commonly used in consumer products in the EU. Examples include Bisphenol A, Phthalates and Parabens.

The NGO ChemSec, today published its 'SIN (Substitute It Now)' list of chemical substances of very high concern calling for immediate, safer substitutions. 22 substances have been added to the 2008 list, with a specific focus on endocrine disrupters. The SIN list also provides guidance for companies and legislators when identifying and phasing out hazardous chemicals.

As restriction of substances of very high concern by the EU's chemicals legislation, REACH[i], is moving much too slow, environmental and health NGOs, trade unions and BEUC call on legislators and industry to act swiftly to reduce consumers' exposure to endocrine disrupters by replacing them with safer alternatives.

Monique Goyens, Director General of BEUC, commented on the launch of the updated SIN list:

"We all are exposed daily to an endocrine disrupting chemical cocktail without realising it: Parabens in our cosmetics, Bisphenol A in our kitchen tools, Phthalates in our carpets etc. It's therefore of paramount importance that companies start substituting them now. The SIN list is a tool to help them achieve this."

For more information on the SIN List project: www.sinlist.org

Note

(i) REACH is intended to limit the use of the most hazardous chemicals through either restriction or authorisation procedures and to provide basic information on industrial chemicals used in the EU.

BEUC, the European Consumers' Organisation has a membership of 44 well respected, independent national consumer organisations from 31 European countries (EU, EEA and applicant countries). BEUC acts as the umbrella group in Brussels for these organisations and its main task is to represent its members and defend the interests of all Europe's consumers.