The impact of toxic chemicals in everyday life on human health and the environment

The Environmental Audit Committee has launched an inquiry into the impact of toxic chemicals in everyday life.

Toxic chemicals such as flame retardants are used in everyday products, such as furniture, food and toys. These chemicals can take many years to break down naturally, travelling throughout the environment via air, soil and water.

Humans are frequently exposed to these chemicals through dust and food, with children amongst the most vulnerable group. Wildlife and the wider environment are also affected.

The Environmental Audit Committee has launched an inquiry into the impact of toxic chemicals in everyday life on human health and the environment.

Chair of the Environmental Audit Committee, Mary Creagh MP, said:

“The use and control of toxic chemicals in everyday products is a pressing environmental issue with serious implications for human health.

“Consumer products, including children’s toys, have been found to be contaminated by toxic chemicals that can end up in in blood and breast milk. Fire retardants, used in furniture and electronic devices, are a common source of harmful chemicals and are governed by UK legislation that has not been significantly updated in over 30 years.

“The Government has committed to reducing harmful chemical levels in soil and rivers in its 25 Year Environment Plan. This inquiry aims to find out whether ministers are doing enough to protect the environment and ensure the risk to human health from toxic chemicals is minimised. I encourage anyone with insight to engage with our inquiry.”

Contributions to this enquiry should be submitted by 8th March 2019. You can find out more here.