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Deca Flame Retardant
In 2007, we tackled one of the most dangerous toxins in our homes, a flame retardant known as "DECA."
Deca is added to products like TVs and furniture to slow fires. Unfortunately, it also leaches out of these products into our homes and ends up in our bodies, especially in children. Two other brominated flame retardant chemicals (called “penta” and “octa”) have already been banned in Maine. Now, it’s time to eliminate the use of Deca.
Here's what we know...
- Deca is found in electronics and textiles throughout our homes.
- Deca delays brain development and causes adult learning and behavioral problems.
- Deca is not necessary for fire safety. (The entire computer industry meets all fire safety standards without using any DECA.)
Researchers and regulators have already confirmed that safer alternatives to Deca are available that work equally well to prevent fires.
Despite the millions of dollars spent by large corporations to prevent this change, the Deca bill passed unanimously in the House and almost unanimously in the Senate. Governor Baldacci is expected to sign the bill into law on June 14th.
To learn more about Deca visit:
The Environmental Health Strategy Center
The Natural Resouces Council of Maine
DEP urges Deca ban
Feb. 15—In a report presented to the legislature, DEP staff recommend that Maine ban the sale of televisions and other electronics equipment encased in plastic made with Deca. They also recommend a ban on mattresses and other furniture containing deca...
Bangor Daily News article
Chemicals in our bodies
MPBN interviews Ken Cook, the president of the Environmental Working Group, about the results of body-burden chemicals testing done on ten individuals... Listen
Firefighters support banning Deca
MPBN piece on proposed ban of Deca flame retardant... Listen
Join us in the campaign for a cleaner, safer Maine
MPA members meet regularly to plan our environmental campaign. If you'd like to get involved, call Adam at 990-0672.
For more information
about toxic chemicals commonly found in consumer products, including sources of additional information, please read our Toxics Fact Sheet (PDF file)
Did you know...
The blood of American babies has been found to contain 200 industrial chemicals and pollutants, including pesticides, consumer product ingredients, and wastes from burning coal, gasoline, and garbage (source: Environmental Working Group)
Approximately 360,000 U.S. children suffer from
developmental problems caused by exposure to known toxic
substances (source: Learning Disabilities Association of America)
More than 90% of the chemicals produced in the U.S. have not been fully tested for public safety (source: U.S. General Accounting Office)