Policy Solutions

All Policy Documents Tagged children's health

Poison on Pets II
Toxic Chemicals in Flea and Tick Collars

Issue Paper

Americans spend more than $1 billion each year on products designed to kill fleas and ticks on household pets, especially dogs and cats. While some of these products are safe, others leave harmful chemical residues on our pets' fur and in our homes. These chemicals are highly hazardous to animals and humans, can damage the brain and nervous system, and cause cancer. The April 2009 paper Poison on Pets II details a first-of-its-kind study by NRDC showing that high levels of pesticide residue can remain on a dog's or cat's fur for weeks after a flea collar is put on an animal. Residue levels produced by some flea collars are so high that they pose a risk of cancer and damage to the neurological system of children up to 1,000 times higher than the EPA's acceptable levels.

Comments on which children's products are subject to the requirements of CPSIA Section 108

Testimony

Sarah Janssen, MD, PhD, submitted these comments on which children's products are subject to the requirements of Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA), Section 108 to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) on March 25, 2009. Get document in pdf.

Comments on which children's products are subject to the requirements of CPSIA Section 108, Phthalates in Children’s Products

Testimony

Sarah Janssen, MD, PhD, submitted these comments on which children's products are subject to the requirements of Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA), Section 108 to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) on January 12, 2009. NRDC's comments pertain to the last two sections of CPSC's request for information: a. Toxicity of Phthalates and Phthalate Alternatives and b. Exposure to Phthalates and Phthalate Alternatives. Get document in pdf.

More Effective and Economical Pest Control
Integrated Pest Management

Fact Sheet

Integrated pest management (IPM) is a proven, cost-effective strategy to combat pest problems without unnecessary pesticides. By correcting conditions that lead to pest problems and using least-toxic pesticides only when necessary, IPM provides more effective pest control, often without increasing costs. Get document in pdf.

Chemicals in Plastic Bottles
How to Know What’s Safe for Your Family

Fact Sheet

A guide to what plastics are safe for your family, and what the government needs to do to ensure strong protections. Get document in pdf.

When the Treatment is Toxic
Pesticides in Head Lice Prescriptions

Fact Sheet

Lindane--a dangerous insecticide--is often used in medication to treat head lice and scabies. The U.S. should adopt bans on lindane to protect the public and the environment. Get document in pdf.

What’s Coming Out of the Tap?
How to Ensure That Your Family’s Drinking Water Is Safe

Fact Sheet

Despite the many sources of pollution that can affect drinking water, with a little research, proper testing, and treatment (if necessary) you can help to ensure that the water you and your family drink is safe. NRDC is joining with local communities to keep drinking water clean and to curb pollution long before it reaches your tap. Get document in pdf.

Water for the World
Solving the Decade’s Most Pressing Environmental Health Problem

Fact Sheet

Lack of safe drinking water and sanitation is the single largest cause of illness in the world. In 2005, the United States passed landmark legislation to address the need for affordable and equitable access to safe water and sanitation, and NRDC now calls on Congress to provide the necessary funding. Get document in pdf.

Poisons on Pets
Health Hazards from Flea and Tick Products

Report

This report highlights the potential health hazards to humans and pets from flea collars and other flea and tick control products. The report recommends that the EPA ban the use of an entire class of these products -- those using organophosphates. It also offers recommendations for pet owners on combating fleas and ticks with a variety of simple non-chemical steps and/or by applying safer products, including insect growth regulators.

Trouble on the Farm: Growing Up with Pesticides in Agricultural Communities

Report

A report examining the disproportionate exposure to dangerous pesticides borne by children of farmers and farm workers, and the related threats to their health.

Our Children At Risk: The Five Worst Environmental Threats to Their Health

Report

A report identifying the special vulnerability of children to environmental hazards and highlighting the growing evidence pointing to a link between pollution and childhood illnesses. The report makes recommendations, at both the policy and personal levels, for the protection of the next generation.