Environment
Plastic ban. The Happiest Countries are green …
PLASTIC toys, dummies, teething rings and other baby products that contain a potentially dangerous chemical have been banned in Australia after research linking it to reproductive problems.
The Federal Government move comes years after a crackdown in the US and the European Union.
It also follows criticism of authorities for refusing to restrict the use of contentious chemicals in baby bottles, plastic containers and heavy duty food wrap.
Consumer Affairs Minister Dr Craig Emerson said toys and baby items carrying more than 1 per cent of diethylhexyl phthalate would be prohibited.
Equipment covered by the limit includes dummies, bowls, plates, cups, cutlery, soft books, infant activity centres and rattles.
“The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has recommended to me that these products be banned because of the risk, albeit remote, of future reproductive problems,” Dr Emerson said.
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“Research has shown there is a risk factor when products containing this chemical are chewed or sucked for long periods.”
Dr Emerson said that toys and baby products being sold in Australia were believed to be free of the chemical, but a ban would prevent its potential spread.
DEHP is used in plastic manufacturing to make products soft. It has also been found in footwear, garden products and vinyl flooring.
A National Industrials Chemicals Notification and Assessment Scheme draft report has also urged a clampdown on its use in cosmetics.
Animal studies suggest the phthalate chemical may cause various health risks including reproductive system damage, especially for boys, and liver complications.
And,
A green country is a happy country
Apparently, money really doesn’t buy happiness: the happiest countries are those that protect their environment and biodiversity, offering their citizens the prospect of a sustainable future.
http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/opinion/2010/0121/1224262769266.html