# NRDC Study Highlights Flaws in Toxic Regulation

- Link: https://greenlivingguy.com/2011/10/nrdc-study-highlights-flaws-in-toxic-regulation/
- Published: 2011-10-27T19:26:36-04:00
- Author: greenlivingguy

## NRDC Study Pushes for TSCA Reform to Reduce Toxic Chemical Exposure

### A Flawed Law in Need of a Fix

Omg this NRDC study about The Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). Because it hasn’t
changed much since it passed in 1976. That’s a problem. According to a [study from the Natural](https://greenlivingguy.com/2019/07/shining-a-light-on-clownfish-survival/)
Resources Defense Council (NRDC), the outdated law has left Americans exposed to
harmful chemicals found in everything from household cleaners to electronics and
furniture. The NRDC argues it’s time for a modern upgrade — one that prioritizes
[public health over chemical](https://greenlivingguy.com/2011/06/national-conversation-on-public-health-and-chemical-exposures-outlines-48-recommendations-to-ensure-chemical-safety-for-americans/)
industry loopholes.

### Thousands of Chemicals, Minimal Oversight

Here’s the issue: TSCA only requires the [EPA to test a small](https://greenlivingguy.com/2019/11/make-small-changes-in-your-everyday-tasks/)
fraction of the more than 80,000 chemicals used in commerce. And many chemicals 
on the market today were “grandfathered in” decades ago, meaning they were never
assessed for safety in the first place. That includes substances now linked to cancer,
reproductive harm, asthma, and hormone disruption.

![Bottles of cleaning products with a spray bottle, green liquid, and yellow gloves,
emphasizing the theme of reducing exposure to toxic chemicals about the NRDC study](
https://i0.wp.com/greenlivingguy.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/224D6C12-6322-4A27-
B274-662327F3F0AF.png?resize=300%2C300&quality=50&ssl=1)

Reducing our exposure to toxic chemicals in everyday products.

In other words, [dangerous chemicals might be part](https://greenlivingguy.com/2020/07/mercury-news-reports-tesla-model-3s-now-part-of-overarching-lawsuit-since-suffering-dangerous-sudden-acceleration/)
of your daily life — and no one’s required to warn you.

### Real Risks, Real People

NRDC’s study highlights how these regulatory gaps affect everyday Americans. Children
are especially vulnerable. So are workers in manufacturing, cleaning, or construction.
Communities [living near chemical plants or waste](https://greenlivingguy.com/2022/04/achieving-food-security-through-sustainable-living/)
sites carry an even heavier burden. Yet current TSCA rules do little to stop [harmful substances from entering our air](https://greenlivingguy.com/2014/03/shell-oil-to-spend-over-115-million-to-reduce-harmful-air-pollution-at-houston-area-refinery-and-chemical-plant/),
water, and homes.

### Smart Reform Could Flip the Script

The NRDC study outlines clear steps for reform. First, it urges mandatory [safety testing before chemicals](https://greenlivingguy.com/2012/09/epa-awards-almost-11-million-advancing-chemical-safety-research/)
hit the market. It also calls for stronger [power for the EPA](https://greenlivingguy.com/2012/04/epa-green-power-partners-top-50-organizations/)
to ban or restrict chemicals proven dangerous — something it currently struggles
to do. Under TSCA, the [EPA even failed](https://greenlivingguy.com/2017/03/epa-pollution-standards-federal-court-stated-failed-updating/)
to ban asbestos, one of the most well-known carcinogens.

Strengthening the [law wouldn’t just protect](https://greenlivingguy.com/2018/05/500-organizations-50-states-urge-congress-defend-bird-protection-law-migratory-bird-treaty-act/)
health; it would create a robust framework that fosters innovation across various
sectors. By encouraging companies to develop safer alternatives, the legislation
would pave the way for advancements in technologies that prioritize environmental
safety and public well-being. Clean tech, green chemistry, and [sustainable product design](https://greenlivingguy.com/2012/05/apprenticeship-program-for-women-in-sustainable-design/)
all benefit when the rules reward low-toxicity solutions, ultimately leading to 
a healthier planet and a more sustainable future. Furthermore, this shift could 
stimulate economic growth by attracting investments in research and development,
thus creating jobs in emerging industries that are focused on sustainability. As
a result, communities would not only see an improvement in health outcomes but also
an enhanced quality of life as cleaner products become the norm rather than the 
exception.

### The Takeaway

TSCA reform isn’t just about paperwork. It’s about [protecting public health](https://greenlivingguy.com/2011/06/theres-nothing-radical-about-protecting-public-health-and-the-environment/)
and pushing the chemical industry to do better. The NRDC’s study findings show we
can no longer afford outdated policies that prioritize profit over safety. It’s 
time to [modernize our chemical](https://greenlivingguy.com/2022/03/agricultural-modernization-and-its-environmental-impacts/)
laws — and give people the protection they deserve.

[Source](https://www.nrdc.org/resources/toxic-chemicals-america-needs-stronger-tsca-law):
NRDC