A Plastic Chemical Caused a Toxic Mess in Ohio Last Year. Now, the EPA Is Eyeing Regulation.
The EPA announced last month that it’s launching a 12-month evaluation period for five hazardous plastic- and petrochemical-related substances, including vinyl chloride. It’s the first step in a potentially yearslong process that could lead to a nationwide ban.
‘I Feel Like I Don’t Matter’: East Palestine Waits for a Presidential Visit
When Jessica Conard heard that President Biden would visit her community in East Palestine, she felt a sense of relief. Mr. Biden’s presence, she believed, would signal to the world that nothing short of disaster happened here in February, when a Norfolk Southern train skipped the tracks and spilled thousands of gallons of toxic chemicals into the environment. All these months later, she’s still waiting for him.
EPA begins formal review of 5 toxic chemicals, including one in Ohio train derailment
The U.S. Environmental Agency Thursday took the first step toward potentially restricting or banning the use of five toxic chemicals used to make plastics, adhesives and paints. Among them is a key ingredient in PVC plastic – vinyl chloride – a common material for water and sewer pipes, medical equipment and toys. It’s also a known carcinogen, and exposure to the substance has been linked to numerous health effects.
US Begins Review That Could Eventually Lead To PVC Ban
The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on Thursday announced a review that could eventually lead to the end of PVC plastic production -- impacting everything from records to rubber ducks. Vinyl chloride, which is used in the manufacturing and processing of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), was officially classified as a human carcinogen in 1974 and banned in hair sprays, refrigerants, cosmetics and drugs.
EPA takes first step to review safety of chemical in East Palestine crash
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) began the review process for vinyl chloride, the toxic substance that spilled in the town of East Palestine, Ohio, in February, in the first step toward further restrictions or a potential ban.
EPA goes after plastics with chemicals plan
EPA announced it is prioritizing risk evaluations for five chemicals primarily used to make plastics, signaling a growing and concerted effort to crack down on plastics. Wednesday’s announcement marks the start of a 12-month process that EPA said will likely result in each chemical’s designation as a “high priority” substance under the Toxic Substances Control Act. With that designation, regulators can then launch the intensive, 3 ½-year review process that could lead to the agency banning or restricting uses of the chemical if deemed unsafe.
EPA begins formal review of vinyl chloride, toxic chemical that burned in Ohio train derailment
The Biden administration has initiated a formal evaluation of risks posed by vinyl chloride, the cancer-causing chemical that burned in a towering plume of toxic black smoke following a fiery train derailment earlier this year in eastern Ohio.
Judith Enck: Chicago must choose lead pipe replacement material carefully
I applaud the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s decision to mandate the removal of lead pipes used for drinking water nationwide. A Michigan State University professor and pediatrician was widely quoted in recent articles saying, “This is like a pediatrician’s dream come true.” But the Biden administration must ensure that we don’t swap one problematic material for another. Polyvinyl chloride, or PVC, pipes will undoubtedly be considered as a replacement for lead pipes in Chicago and elsewhere, and they come with their own serious concerns.
President Biden, Come to East Palestine and Bring FEMA With You
The Ohio train derailment is not a comeback story, it's a grim warning. It's about an industry that values profit over people and the environment, and about a regulatory system that has failed to keep these industries in check. There is an undeniable connection between this disaster and the plastics industry. The production of PVC plastic depends on transporting harmful chemicals like vinyl chloride. The insatiable demand for plastics has driven the need for increased transport of these hazardous substances, placing communities near rail tracks under constant threat. As company profits soar, our communities are left to grapple with the aftermath of their negligence.
Biden Administration to Curb Toxic Pollutants From Chemical Plants
The Biden administration on Thursday proposed a new regulation to significantly reduce hazardous air pollutants from chemical plants, a move that environmental advocates predicted would significantly reduce the health risks to people living near industrial sites. The proposed Environmental Protection Agency rule calls on chemical plants to monitor and reduce the amount of toxic pollutants released in the air, including the carcinogens ethylene oxide, an ingredient in antifreeze, and chloroprene, which is used to make the rubber in footwear.
Judith Enck: SCOTUS Curtails Biden’s Climate Goals
The recent decision from the Supreme Court limits the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s ability to regulate greenhouse gas emissions from power plants. It’s being described as a ‘gut punch' by some environmental activists. Judith Enck, a former EPA regional administrator, joined Errol to react to the ruling, explain how the Biden administration can move forward despite it and discuss what it means for New York.
Biden proposes higher EPA funding, including $10M in recycling grants from Save Our Seas 2.0
The Biden administration is calling for the U.S. EPA's largest overall budget in history, at $11.2 billion, including $10 million in funding for a new Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling (SWIFR) pilot grant program as a result of the Save Our Seas 2.0 Act.
Chemicals in plastics damage babies' brains and must be banned immediately, expert group says
Phthalates, human-made chemicals in the plastics we use, are negatively impacting brain development in kids, according to a group of volunteer scientists, health professionals and child advocates.
New action on horizon for sustainable materials management under Biden, experts predict
Recycling market development and food waste are among many issues stakeholders hope will receive renewed federal engagement, despite limited attention in the president's agenda to date.