Tag

Chemical Regulation

All articles tagged with #chemical regulation

environment3 months ago

Environmental Concerns Mount Over Data Center Pollution Amid AI Expansion

Public health advocates are raising concerns about Pfas 'forever chemicals' pollution from datacenters, which are expanding due to the AI industry. These chemicals, used in cooling systems and electronic equipment, pose serious health risks and environmental hazards, yet testing and regulation are lacking. The industry claims minimal pollution, but experts warn of long-term impacts and increased environmental contamination, prompting calls for stricter reporting and regulation.

health-and-environment1 year ago

"U.S. EPA Enacts Complete Ban on Asbestos, Ending Decades of Its Use"

The EPA has announced a comprehensive ban on asbestos, a deadly carcinogen still used in some products in the United States, marking a major expansion of regulation under a 2016 law. Asbestos is known to cause lung cancer and other diseases, leading to over 40,000 deaths annually. The ban aims to protect public health and aligns with President Biden's Cancer Moonshot initiative. The rule will phase out asbestos use in chlorine bleach, brake pads, and other products over several years, with exceptions for specific industries. The EPA is also evaluating legacy uses of asbestos in older buildings to determine potential health risks.

health-and-environment1 year ago

"Plastics and Chemicals Linked to Rising Preterm Births, Study Finds"

A new study published in Lancet Planetary Health suggests that chemicals commonly used in plastics are linked to tens of thousands of preterm births in the U.S. annually, leading to billions of dollars in medical costs over the affected children's lifetimes. The study highlights the need to address global plastic pollution and the potential harms of chemical substitutes. While the study does not establish a causal relationship, it adds to existing evidence and emphasizes the importance of revamping chemical regulation to protect human health. Researchers recommend reducing plastic use and opting for glass or stainless steel storage to limit exposure to these harmful chemicals.