by Ann Withanee — November 5, 2010—Some flame retardants pose numerous health hazards to humans and the environment while providing little protection from fire, says a group of scientists that is suggesting changes to how flame retardants are chosen for products and how products containing them are recycled.
The San Antonio Statement on Brominated and Chlorinated Flame Retardants, signed by 145 scientists from 22 countries, says brominated flame retardants (BFRs) and chlorinated flame retardants (CFRs) need to be better scrutinized, and as types of flame retardants are banned, the alternatives should be proven safe before being used.
BFRs and CFRs are used in furniture, electronics, insulation and other products, and have been linked to cancer and impaired brain and reproductive development.
The flame retardants mentioned in the San Antonio Statement are persistent, bioaccumulative and toxic, meaning they build up in the environment and linger. The statement also mentions disposal of electronics that contain flame retardants, since improper disposal and burning can release those chemicals into the environment and expose humans to them. Along with releasing toxins when burned, the statement says, “their overall benefit in improving fire safety has not been proven.”
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