Greenpeace's Chemical House database helps consumers select less toxic alternatives
We reckon that if you want something done right, you have to do
it yourself. That's why we are producing "red and green" lists of
consumer products based on their toxic content, the amount of
information the company is willing to provide, and how much the
company is prepared to do to remedy the situation.
Make a new non-toxic shopping list
Our "red and green" list covers products sold in Europe and by
many global multinational companies. When you go out shopping you
can now go armed with the information you need to make informed
choices.
Browse the Chemical House and find out what exactly is lurking in your home
You might be surprised at how many products you use each and
every day contain dangerous chemicals. But now you can use consumer
power to pressure companies into cleaning up their act.
"We ... want to encourage manufacturers to step up their efforts
to phase out hazardous substances and give consumers a wider choice
of greener products," says Iza Kruszewska, Greenpeace International
toxics campaigner.
By exposing the companies that use hazardous chemicals, and
showing which of their competitors are making efforts to eliminate
or replace these nasties, we aim to inform consumers about the true
contents of products. In April, we released the results of
laboratory tests conducted on Disney children's wear, which found
harmful substances present in some Disney pyjamas, T-shirts and
underwear. Despite global pressure on Disney, they have not
responded with a policy to phase out harmful chemicals.
Mickey on the dock in Brussels
So today, Greenpeace's very own toxic Mickey Mouse, redubbed
"CheMickey", appeared in Brussels to await his fate. He's been
locked in the stocks and put on trial outside the European Union
Competitiveness Council where EU ministers are meeting to discuss
the proposed reform of Europe's chemicals policy (REACH). Chemickey
will be straddling one barrel containing consumer products known to
contain harmful chemicals, and another containing non-toxic safer
alternatives. The decision on whether CheMickey will be released
from his toxic burden lies in the hands of Industry and Economy
Ministers, represented by the characters of Chirac, Blair and
Schröder.
The pressure on companies by Greenpeace to substitute hazardous
chemicals is already bearing (organic) fruit. Last week, UK
retailer the Co-op announced that it was banning a range of toxic
chemicals still permitted for use in everyday products like
washing-up liquid and household cleaners, as part of a new ethical
drive.
What you can do right now
Take
a tour of the Chemical Home and update your shopping list with
toxic-free alternatives
Tell
Disney to stop using toxic chemicals in its childrenswear
Tell your local MP to
strengthen chemical legislation (in Europe)
Find out how your MEP will vote on EU chemical laws
Read the Greenpeace consumer products briefing