PBDE Flame Retardants

What are PBDEs and where are they found?

PBDEs (Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers) are synthetic chemicals that are often added to foam padding, plastics and fabrics so they won’t catch on fire or burn as easily if they are exposed to flame or high heat. These flame retardant chemicals can be found in consumer products such as toys, plastic computer and television housing, furniture foams, upholstery, clothing, small appliances and wire insulation.

To find out more scientific information about PBDEs and how to reduce your exposure to them, click on the factsheet: About PBDE Flame Retardants (pdf)

2008 Legislative Report on PBDEs

Safety concerns have been raised over the widespread use and disposal of PBDE flame retardants in consumer products. The Office of Environmental Public Health released a final report on PBDEs in 2008. You can download and print the final 2008 report here: Polybrominated Diphenyl Ether (PBDE) Flame Retardants (pdf)

News about PBDE Flame Retardants

• In 2009, Oregon passed legislation (Senate Bill 596) to phase out the use of PBDEs.
• On December 17, 2009, the principal manufacturers of decaBDE, Albemarle Corporation and Chemtura Corporation, and the principal importer, ICL Industrial Products, Inc., announced their commitment to a three-year phase-out of decaBDE. 
• EPA Region 10 is hosting a workshop on reducing PBDEs in the Columbia River basin on February 25, 2010. To find out more about this workshop, click here.