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Toxic Softeners in Plastic Toys to Be Banned in Europe

BRUSSELS, Belgium, September 28, 2004 (ENS) – Trade ministers from across the European Union have agreed on a law to phase out six toxic chemicals used to soften vinyl plastic in children's toys – seven years after researchers found evidence of a link between the chemicals and both liver damage and reproductive failure. The chemicals are known as phthalates – pronounced thalates. The unanimous decision of the Competitiveness Council Monday recommends a ban of three phthalates – DEHP, DBP and BBP – that the EU has identified as capable of causing reproductive damage from all products intended for children regardless of age. The three other phthalates, which are toxic to the liver – DINP, DIDP and DNOP – will only be prohibited in toys and childcare articles for children under three years old and which are intended to be sucked on or chewed. Green Euro-MPs and environmental groups welcomed the decision, which they described as "better late than never." Caroline Lucas, MEP for South-East England and a member of the European Parliament's Environment Committee, said, "The competitiveness council has made the right decision, eventually, and protecting the health of babies and children will, at last, be prioritized over the interests […]

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