Testing showed high levels of toxic chlorinated paraffins in children's toys from 10 countries, including Tunisia. Chlorinated paraffins are linked to cancer, damage to developing brains, endocrine disruption, damage to the liver and kidneys, and threats to reproductive health.
Learn how the Association of Environmental Education for Future Generations (AEEFG) in Tunisia exposed the toxic toys and is working for safer products and healthier environments for children and families.
In 1995, a group of female journalists working in the first environmental newspaper in Kazakhstan established Greenwomen as the country's first ecological analytical non-profit agency focusing on environmental health and justice. I have been leading the organization since then.
Jackets and other clothing from thirteen countries contain toxic chemicals linked to cancer, infertility and other serious health conditions
Tuesday, 28 November 2023
A study released today by Arnika, IPEN and 13 IPEN member groups and partners found toxic per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) chemicals, including globally banned substances in outdoor jackets and clothing purchased from thirteen countries across Asia, Africa, Europe, and North America. Most of the outdoor jackets were marketed for children and many of the products come into direct contact with skin. PFAS, called “Forever Chemicals” due to their extreme persistence in the environment, are used in clothing and other products to confer stain- and water-resistance. But the study also found jackets and clothing made without PFAS, demonstrating that safer alternatives to the toxic substances are available.
For this study, jackets and other clothing sold as water- or stain-resistant were purchased from 13 countries in Asia, Africa, Europe and North America. Most of the jackets tested were marketed for children. Countries included were Germany, Czech Republic, Netherlands, Poland, United Kingdom, Serbia, Montenegro, Kenya, Bangladesh, India, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and the U.S.
Study on human cells shows young children playing with toys made from recycled plastic could be exposed to toxic chemicals, above EU safety levels for similar substances
Thursday, 16 November 2023
Scientists and civil society experts say published findings should influence design of new global Plastics Treaty