Lead by Anne Roberston

Background

Unlike the U.S., the European Union has a strong chemicals policy, called Reach. Companies must prove that their chemicals are safe. In the U.S., citizens must prove that chemicals are dangerous.
-- At least one driver for this policy is the fact that most European nations have universal health care--thus the taxpayers were bearing the cost of health problems caused by toxics.

Resources:

Mark Shapiro, "Exposed: Toxics Chemicals in Everyday Products and What's at Stake for American Power

Bill Moyers, Trade Secrets


Case studies:

SC Johnson, Saran Wrap: SC Johnson took a risky chemical out of one of its major products. This caused a change in the qualities of the products, that not all consumers have liked, resulting in a drop in sales. The company (a private company) has decided to hold strong, and keep the chemical out.


Positive legislation on the horizon:

* Toxics Control substances act
* Kid Safe chemicals Act

Organizations/experts Involved

Center for Children and Environmental Health, NYC
Healthy World, Healthy Child
Dr. Phil Landrigan (national expert of children's health & toxics)