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Toxic Products in Our Homes - Serious Environmental Problems |
The Problem: Many of the products in our homes are toxic and can cause serious environmental problems if they are disposed of improperly. Household products like those listed below can contain acute and chronic toxins, carcinogens, mutagens, neurotoxins, environmental toxins, or chemical compounds that cause developmental and reproductive problems. These products may be flammable, corrosive or reactive.
The Cause: All of the following household products contain hazardous chemicals: solvents, pesticides, herbicides, insecticides, fungicides, mothballs, chemical fertilizers, electrical appliances, batteries, oven and drain cleaners, enamel and other oil-based paints, nail polish removers, paint removers (turpentine), antifreeze, waxes and polishes. These and thousands of untested substances may become pollutants as they are poured down drains, leached from landfills into soils and water tables, washed into the oceans, and dispersed into the air we breathe through evaporation and trash incineration.
You Can Help: Use products containing hazardous materials and fertilizers sparingly or use alternatives. The decisions consumers make affect the way manufacturers design products. Dispose of household hazardous wastes according to the directions on the container or at hazardous waste collection facilities.
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