Through our research and testing, we have discovered thousands of consumer products that expose our children and families to harmful chemicals. EcoRights and our partner in consumer protection campaigns, Mateel Environmental Justice Foundation, have used Proposition 65 to force hundreds of manufacturers and importers to reduce or eliminate toxic health threats. A few examples:
Lead in PVC Plastics
EcoRights identified hundreds of imported polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic products that are made with lead stabilizers, including:
- power cords
- headphones
- children’s rain gear
- fake leather products
- lunch boxes
- bicycle handlebar grips
...and others.
Because lead does not bond well in the plastic, it is constantly present on the products’ surfaces, causing repeated toxic exposures to users. Our research and subsequent lawsuits resulted in legally-enforceable commitments, by hundreds of companies, to use lead-free plastics in their products.
Lead in Food Equipment
Our research and testing uncovered dangerous lead exposures caused by leaded-brass food-contact items, such as lemonade dispensers, beer keg taps, espresso machines, and cookware, resulting in widespread reformulation of those food industry products.
Lead in Stained Glass
We persuaded major manufacturers of stained glass lamps, some marketed for use by children, to use lead‑free solders and caming materials.
Perc in Dry Cleaning
We secured commitments from California dry cleaning chains to warn consumers of the hazards of perchloroethylene, and to provide alternative, non-toxic cleaning methods at comparable prices.
Toxins in Household Products
EcoRights has been successful in removing toxic constituents from a variety of common household products, including, among others:
- cleaning products and adhesives
- galvanized pipes
- nails and screws
- kitchen supplies
- sporting goods
The unfortunate truth is that America’s chemical regulatory policies are flawed and often ineffective. They should be based on a precautionary, health-protective approach, where new chemicals must be adequately tested and proven safe before exposing people. Instead, by failing to require manufacturers to perform toxicity testing of chemicals used in commerce, our government burdens the public with financing the testing and fighting against use of the chemicals later found to be harmful. When we successfully fight the use of one chemical, manufacturers often move from the challenged chemical to a new, untested chemical that is not necessarily preferable. This creates an unfortunate cycle, requiring constant vigilance by citizens and consumer protection groups.