There are over 175 different flame retardants on the market. They have played an important role in improving fire safety standards of many products, including computers, furniture, mattresses and others. Unfortunately, some of these flame retardants are both widely used and may be linked to health problems.
One class of flame retardants, called brominated flame retardants (BFRs), are especially worrisome because they are found at high levels in women's breast milk. Several states have banned some BFRs from use because they may increase risk for learning and memory problems and behavior changes.
Electronic equipment is also made from a variety of other toxic materials. Pollution can occur during manufacturing and disposal of these products.
What you can do
• Limit your exposure to flame retardants: Chose products made by companies that are eliminating BFRs. The Safer Products Project website lists some companies to choose from. Also, keep your house free of dust, which may harbor flame retardants and other contaminants.
• Reduce contamination from manufacturing and disposal of electronic equipment: Buy only the necessary electronic equipment. If electronic equipment is no longer needed but still functions, consider donating it to a local organization. Some towns have electronic recycling businesses or government programs which will recycle or re-sell computers and electronics. Some companies will take back electronic equipment and re-use parts of the product. Keep discarded electronics out of the regular trash because the chemicals in them make all electronic equipment hazardous waste.
