Toxic threats
The chemicals used in everything from perfumes to cleaners to fertilizers should make our lives better — not harm our health or our environment.
There are more than 80,000 chemicals on the market in the United States, used in everything from perfumes and household cleaners to fertilizers and industrial solvents. Surprisingly, most chemicals go into use without testing their long-term impact on our health or the environment. We should make sure that any chemical in use is safe, eliminate any we know are dangerous, and when industries make a toxic mess, we should know right away, and they should pay to clean it up.
The Latest on Toxic threats
What’s the problem with fast fashion?
Has PFAS contaminated your beach?
Updates
We’re making your voice heard on mercury pollution
REI commits to eliminating PFAS from its products
Advocacy groups to EPA: Take action to reduce near-term “forever chemical” releases
Featured Resources
The Threat of “Forever Chemicals”
Who are the top toxic water polluters in your state?
“Chemical recycling”: What you need to know.
Get the Lead Out
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Updated 2023 mid-hurricane season resource guide: data, resources & interview opportunities
The Atlantic hurricane season lasts from June 1 through November 30. This resource guide can help members of the media cover it more thoroughly and accurately.
Major PFAS manufacturer will pay more than $10 billion for clean-up
A major chemical company and producer of PFAS “forever chemicals”, 3M agreed to a $10.3 billion settlement with public water utilities last Thursday.
Mercury pollution from power plants threatens our health. New proposed EPA standards can help.
Fossil fuel power plants belch mercury and other toxic air pollutants into our atmosphere — but now’s our chance to seriously cut back this deadly pollution.
How you can help protect yourself and your community from toxic chemical plant pollution
The EPA has proposed new, stronger limits on toxic emissions from chemical plants. Your voice will help ensure the agency finalizes the strongest possible protections.
Why is Red Dye #3 still being used in our food?
Thirty years after Red Dye #3 was banned from use in cosmetics, this toxic additive is still being used to, for example, make freeze pops a brighter red. That's nuts.