chemicals | Common News Update

Jan132023 by adminNo Comments

‘Forever chemicals’ still in use in UK make-up

Science

ReutersBy Esme StallardBBC News Climate and ScienceMajor beauty brands Urban Decay, Revolution and Inglot are selling make-up in the UK containing "forever chemicals", BBC News has found.These pollutants - known as PFAS - have been linked to serious health concerns including cancer.They are not illegal in the UK but five European countries are expected to propose an EU-wide ban on Friday.L'Oréal, which owns Urban Decay, told the BBC it was "well underway" with phasing out the chemicals.PFAS, which stands for poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances, are resistant to oil and water, making them highly valuable to the make-up industry. Historically they have been added to products to make them last longer, improve finish and preserve the colour of eyeshadows and lipsticks. Many brands are now "PFA...

Aug22022 by adminNo Comments

Pollution: ‘Forever chemicals’ in rainwater exceed safe levels

Science

Getty ImagesNew research shows that rainwater in most locations on Earth contains levels of chemicals that "greatly exceed" safety levels.These synthetic substances called PFAS are used in non-stick pans, fire-fighting foam and water-repellent clothes. Dubbed 'forever chemicals', they persist for years in the environment.Such is their prevalence now that scientists say there is no safe space on Earth to avoid them.The researchers from Stockholm University say it is "vitally important" that the use of these substances is rapidly restricted. More research needed on climate extinction threatThe race to replace persistent chemicals in our homesDriest July in England since 1935 - Met OfficeScientists fear PFAS may pose health risks including cancer, though research has so far been inconclusive....

May42022 by adminNo Comments

Maine passes first PFAS biosolids ban, taking stand against forever chemicals

Science

BANGOR, Maine, May 4 (UPI) -- Maine has become the first state to ban fertilizer using sewage sludge containing "forever chemicals" -- synthetic compounds found in items from food wrappers to carpeting that fail to break down in the environment. The move, along with a ban approved last year on all PFAS-containing products, puts Maine at the forefront of the fight against per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, which have been linked to a variety of health problems, including cancer and high cholesterol. The chemicals accumulate over decades, filtering into soil, water, plants and animals -- and eventually into people's bloodstreams. "Maine is one of the few states that is really taking this problem seriously and taking action to address the issue," Jared Hayes, a policy analyst with the Envi...

Aug292020 by adminNo Comments

Chemicals in food, clothing, cosmetics increase ADHD risk in children, study finds

Health

Aug. 28 (UPI) -- Exposure to certain chemicals commonly found in cosmetics and processed foods increases a child's risk for developing ADHD-like behaviors by more than 30%, according to a study published Friday by JAMA Network Open. For every two-fold rise in concentrations of chemicals called phthalates, as measured by urinalysis, a child is 34% more likely to shows signs of the neurobehavioral disorder, the data showed. Advertisement And for every two-fold increase in urine concentrations of dichlorophenols, the risk grows by 15%, the researchers said. Phthalates are used in plastics and are often found in cosmetics, lubricants, personal-care products, medical devices, detergents, packaging, children's toys, pharmaceuticals, food products and clothing, while dichlorophenols can be found...

Apr112020 by adminNo Comments

Bangladesh’s water teeming with drugs, chemicals, study says

Science

April 10 (UPI) -- Water sampling data suggests the canals, lakes, ponds, rivers and surface waters of Bangladesh host alarmingly high levels of toxic chemicals, antibiotics and other drugs. The proliferation of antibiotics in the environment has been linked with the prevalence of antibiotic-resistance among disease-causing microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses and parasites. In Bangladesh, there is little to no regulation of antimicrobial drug use, and large amounts of antibiotics are used in healthcare and agricultural production. As well, the lack of quality wastewater management makes Bangladesh's water especially vulnerable to spikes in antibiotic residues. For these reasons, India's eastern neighbor is especially vulnerable to the emergence and spread of anti-microbial resista...