A call for green chemistry.

* The California Environmental Protection Agency's Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) has released a report outlining recommendations for reducing toxic chemicals in products. The report constitutes the first phase of complying with the state's Green Chemistry Initiative. The Green Chemistry Phase 1 Options Report identifies several key elements of options submitted by manufacturers, industry, environmental groups, academics, labor organizations and the public that were compiled by DTSC over an eight-month period. The Phase 1 options are being evaluated.

The Consumer Specialty Products Association (CSPA) actively participated in the data-gathering process, submitting two sets of comments and giving a presentation before the DTSC. The Phase 1 report reflects that CSPA's comments were influential in shaping initial recommendations.

Specifically, as the CSPA advocated, the DTSC has refrained from recommending comprehensive product data development requirements, product pre-market approval programs or registration of chemicals. While still very challenging, the DTSC's initial recommendations do not propose an immediate shift to a European model; i.e., a hazard-based approach to chemicals management.

The Green Chemistry Phase 1 Options Report recommends key actions such as: include green chemistry in K-12 education; train new scientists in green chemistry; include green chemistry and toxicity in state procurement policy; collect comprehensive chemical information; disseminate information on toxic chemicals; empower consumers to make informed choices; expand California's Pollution Prevention Program; strengthen consumer protection laws; forge strategic and international partnerships on chemicals-with Canada and the European Union concerning the registration, evaluation and authorizations of chemicals.

This spring, the DTSC will be hosting workshops to provide input on mechanisms for implementating the recommendations.

More info: Andy Hackman e-mail: [e-mail]; or visit: www.dtsc.ca.gov/PollutionPrevention/GreenChemistry Initiative/index.cfm