Often, we focus on chemical hazards after there’s already a problem – a spill, an injury, or an unforeseen environmental impact. When businesses use safer ingredients in their products and eliminate hazardous chemicals used in manufacturing processes, however, those problems can be avoided in the design stage.
In May, the Washington Department of Ecology and the National Pollution Prevention Roundtable will introduce a new program called the Safer Chemistry Challenge to support businesses that are working to create cleaner, safer products.
“Many Washington businesses and organizations already understand that making safer products is a smart business decision,” said Ken Zarker, manager of Ecology’s pollution prevention and regulatory assistance section. “By promoting safer products and cleaner manufacturing methods through the Safer Chemistry Challenge, we want to spur innovation and spread best practices.”
The Challenge will offer participants technical assistance with chemical hazard assessments, training and education, and sponsor cross-industry conversations. Businesses and organizations that demonstrate ongoing leadership in pursuing safer chemistry will be honored as “Safer Chemistry Champions.”
Learn more
- Ecology will host a webinar at 9:30 a.m. May 21 for businesses and organizations interested in the Safer Chemistry Challenge. The webinar will provide an overview of Ecology’s green chemistry initiative, state and national safer product regulations, and the education and resources available through the Challenge. Register at https://wadismeetings.webex.com/wadismeetings/j.php?ED=280405867&RG=1&UID=0&RT=MiM0.
- Find more information on the Safer Chemistry Challenge at www.ecy.wa.gov/greenchemistry.