Pact Triggers Tests

Abstract

Some 2,800 common, high-production-volume chemicals may undergo a battery of basic toxicity screening tests over the next six years through an agreement signed by the federal government, the Environmental Defense Fund (EDF), and the Chemical Manufacturers Association (CMA). The deal places the responsibility on the chemical industry to pay for the tests and to see that they get done. The testing program, which will screen the chemicals for potential harm to humans and the environment, is to be wrapped up by 2004. CMA also agreed to create an Internet site where the public can track industry's progress. For the pact to succeed, however, sources say U.S. chemical companies must be aided by sister companies around the world—otherwise, they doubt the resources are available to pull the plan off. A step in that direction took place in early October, about the same time CMA's agreement was announced. The International Council of Chemical Associations (ICCA), an ...