Upstream Sources: Toxic Chemicals in Kids\u27 Products

Washington state’s Children’s Safe Products Act of 2008 (CSPA) requires manufacturers of children’s products to report to the state when they sell products in Washington that contain any of 66 chemicals of high concern to children. CSPA was the first such state chemical disclosure law passed in the US. The most recent public release of CSPA manufacturer-reported data (February, 2016) is summarized. Products being reported under CSPA contain chemicals such as phthalates, PFOS, 4-nonylphenol, toxic flame retardants, and more – chemicals that also impact aquatic ecosystems in addition to being of concern for human health. The manufacture and use of consumer products has been shown to be a significant source of some toxic chemicals to aquatic environments. CSPA data reveals previously undisclosed information about many of the products these chemicals are found in. Policy implications of this data include identifying key product categories and key chemicals around which to pursue new policies protective of both public health and of aquatic ecosystems