US: A proposed Californian state legal bill threatens to phase out potentially toxic flame-retardants in foam insulation. The chemical industry has opposed the bill arguing that the move jeopardises energy-efficiency measures and doesn't take into account forthcoming legislation.
The sponsor of the bill, the US Green Building Council of California, said in a supporting letter that the bill is necessary because the adverse effects on health by halogenated organic compounds in flame-retardants are well documented.
However, the American Chemistry Council (ACC) has stated that the bill will unnecessarily circumvent the Department of Toxic Substances Control's forthcoming green chemistry regulations, which will identify potentially problematic chemicals in consumer products. The ACC added that, "Since buildings account for an estimated 36% of total energy use and 30% of greenhouse gas emissions in the United States, California should be encouraging, not discouraging, the use of energy-saving building materials."
The bill is scheduled to be heard by the Assembly Natural Resources Committee on 29 April 2013.
