1. EPA eases path for new chemicals, raising health fears
Consumer advocates and former EPA staff are raising concern about revised review procedures for new chemicals, which they fear do not provide sufficient protections for human and environmental health. Health Care Without Harm believes in a scientifically sound and precautionary approach toward reviewing chemical safety.
2. Final rule on mercury reporting expected
Approximately 750 entities who manufacture, import, or otherwise distribute in commerce mercury or mercury-added products will be required to report to the EPA both quantitative and qualitative data related to those activities by June 2018. Health Care Without Harm supports this move and has been a global leader in the effort to track, minimize, and remove mercury from the production process wherever possible.