Chemicals
Study finds brominated flame retardants in firefighter turnout gear, including newer PFAS-free models
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A U.S. study has found brominated flame retardants in firefighter turnout gear, including in newer models marketed as PFAS-free. Published on December 16 in Environmental Science & Technology Letters, the research reports that some of these flame retardants appear at higher extractable levels than PFAS in certain gear layers, raising fresh questions about potential health risks to firefighters.
Reports have surfaced of a ban on sulphuric acid exports from China effective in May, worsening a supply squeeze from Gulf conflicts. The Strait of Hormuz has been effectively blocked since military strikes began on February 28, stalling shipments from a region accounting for a quarter of global production.
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The South Korean government established a joint task force with local industry officials on Wednesday to respond to the European Union's plan to phase out per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). The EU plans to publish a draft opinion on PFAS restrictions later this month, aiming for universal adoption by 2027.
Researchers at the University of Cambridge have found that 168 common industrial and agricultural chemicals can harm beneficial bacteria in the human gut, with some also promoting resistance to antibiotics. Drawing on a large laboratory screen, the team created a machine learning model to predict which chemicals may pose risks to the microbiome.
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A new Greenpeace report reveals chemicals exceeding EU limits in Shein clothing and shoes. Of 56 products tested from eight countries, 18 showed issues, including children's items. Shein has temporarily removed the affected articles from sale.