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Canada bans phthalates in toys

Health Canada has announced new restrictions on the use of six phthalates in children's toys and products used in the care of children. Research has shown that phthalates have a number of health effects, including as endocrine disruptors, disrupting the reproductive hormone systems of children. The chemicals can also cause liver and kidney failure when large amounts are ingested.

Most toy manufacturers began phasing out phthalates years ago, but these new restrictions ensure a complete ban.

Submitted by Binit on Fri, 21/01/2011 - 14:26

Aussies set to phase out BPA

International pressure to eliminate BPA from food containers is growing. Following rising public concern about the use of toxic chemicals in baby bottles, Australia’s major retail chains have voluntarily decided to phase out bottles that contain Bisphenol-A (BPA), starting 1 July. “The Australian Government appreciates there has been a level of public concern relating to BPA in baby bottles and, as such, has worked extensively with retailers to introduce the phase out,” said Health Secretary Mark Butler.

Submitted by Binit on Fri, 16/07/2010 - 11:39

US town bans plastic bottles

While there are some well-known health issues about drinking from plastic bottles, it is sometimes easy to forget the environmental consequences of countless plastic bottles that pollute local waters. News that residents of US town, Concord, have banned all sales of bottled water is therefore a timely reminder that discarded bottles do damage the planet. The fact that this is the first town in the US that has implemented such a ban is all the more impressive.

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Submitted by Binit on Thu, 06/05/2010 - 09:52