Washington’s departments of Ecology and Health are seeking public input on its draft plan addressing phthalates, a human-made chemical found in plastics that has a toxic effect on humans and wildlife.
Phthalates are found in many consumer products, as its compounds make plastic more flexible and durable, as well as retain scents, according to Ecology. These chemicals can impair reproductive health, prenatal development and hormone regulation in both humans and animals, particularly aquatic wildlife.
The draft Phthalates Action Plan, posted on Ecology’s website, includes recommendations to minimize, assess and phase out the use of these chemicals in consumer products.
Manufactures commonly use phthalates for lotions and perfumes, food containers, plastic building supplies and household products. Ecology reports that almost 90 percent of Americans have observable levels of chemicals in their urine.
