Lead, arsenic found in products from handbags to car seats
A consumer watchdog group has found lead, arsenic and other potentially harmful chemicals in an array of everyday products, from handbags to pet supplies to car seats and backpacks. The Michigan-based Ecology Center tested more than 5,000 products for its new database, healthystuff.org. Two-thirds of all handbags tested had lead levels above 300 parts per million, the new safety standard for children's products.
It's easy not being green
The majority of companies that are about to get hit with environmental sanctions ignore the Securities and Exchange Commission's requirement that they disclose that liability to investors, according to a University of Arkansas researcher.
Bisphenol A Mimics Estrogen, Phthalates Target Testosterone
Although they have been linked to reproductive problems in both sexes, bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates -- common chemicals found in household plastics -- have gender-specific effects. Research has shown that even low levels of BPA and phthalates cause problems in humans -- including obesity.
Hospitals go for a greener clean
The places that need to be the cleanest, the most sterilized, are finding that green cleaners are more effective than regular ones. Hospitals have started replacing the old chemical cleaners with natural products.
California unveils six-step strategy to promote green chemistry
California officials today unveiled a six-step strategy to promote use of safer, sustainable chemicals and wean the state's industries and consumers off toxic compounds.