The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has banned two cancer-causing chemicals used in dry cleaning products, perc and trichloroethylene (TCE). The move is a result of years of controversy over the health risks associated with these solvents.
TCE, also known as Perc, has been linked to liver, kidney, brain, and testicular cancer, as well as damage to the nervous and immune systems. It has been found in drinking water nationwide and was the subject of a 1995 book that became a movie.
The EPA’s ban on TCE is under the Toxic Substances Control Act, which gives the agency greater authority to regulate harmful chemicals. The solvent will still be used in some industrial applications, including aviation and defense, with strict rules in place to protect workers.
Environmental advocates have welcomed the move, citing concerns over pollution that cut across party loyalties. However, industry groups have criticized the new restrictions, saying they could have far-reaching impacts on various industries and the national economy.
The EPA’s assistant administrator for chemical safety, Michal Freedhoff, said safer alternatives are becoming readily available and there is no reason to continue using these chemicals. The ban reflects a recognition that concerns over pollution can bring people together, according to Jonathan Kalmuss-Katz, a senior attorney at Earthjustice.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/12/09/climate/epa-dry-cleaning-chemical-ban-perc-tce.html