Flame Retardant Chemicals
Flame retardant chemicals are added to consumer products, such as furniture, clothing, baby products, and coverings for electronic devices, to reduce their flammability. Brominated flame retardants are a common class of chemicals that have been used widely and are associated with negative health effects, such as cancer, thyroid problems, and interfering with children's brain development. Although many of these chemicals are being phased out of commercial use, they are incredibly persistent in the environment. In this podcast, hear how researchers and advocates are working to reduce exposure to flame retardants in particularly vulnerable communities and to communicate with decision makers to further protect human health.