Fw: EU proposes curbs on toxic chemicals by 2003

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From: " ilena rose " <ilena@...>

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Sent: Tuesday, February 26, 2002 12:18 AM

Subject: EU proposes curbs on toxic chemicals by 2003

> EU proposes curbs on toxic chemicals by 2003

> ______________________________________________________________________

>

> EU: February 22, 2002

>

> BRUSSELS - The European Commission approved plans this week to

> restrict by 2003 the public use of 43 chemicals which are believed to

> cause cancer, damage reproduction or pose a danger to human genes.

>

> The substances in question are used in special paints, printing inks,

> varnishes and adhesives, the EU's executive Commission said in a

> statement.

>

> " The Commission proposes that their sale to consumers be banned

> starting from April 1, 2003. Most producers have already stopped

> selling these substances...to consumers, " the statement said.

>

> " On the other hand, these chemicals would continue to be available for

> professional users who are able to ensure their safe use, " it added.

>

> Since 1994, the European Union has imposed restrictions on substances

> considered to be dangerous to public health. On several occasions it

> has proposed adding further chemicals to the EU's blacklist as

> scientific evidence emerges.

>

> European researchers are concerned that chemicals with the same

> properties as natural hormones - known as hormone disruptors - may be

> causing an increase in testicular cancer, falling sperm counts and

> abnormalities in male sex organs.

>

> These gender-bending chemicals are compounds used in paints,

> pesticides and detergents.

>

> REUTERS NEWS SERVICE

>

>