Ban on endocrine disruptors in sight

The European Parliament has opened the way for a new trial against the European Commission, if they do not take action against endocrine disruptors within the next two months. The Commission, responsible for the day-to-day management of the EU, should in fact have started taking endocrine disruptors off the market back in 2013, but to date has refused to do so due to economic considerations.

Endocrine disruptors are found in plastic packaging, cosmetics and sprayed vegetables and fruits, among others. The chemical substances can cause a variety of conditions, including breast cancer, testicular cancer and fertility problems.

“This is one last chance for the European Commission to finally make a stand for public and animal health: a chance the Commission actually does not deserve,” according to MEP Anja Hazekamp.

“The deadline for establishing criteria which allow for endocrine disruptors to be taken off the market, was 13 December 2013. For over two years, the European Commission has wilfully gambled with public health, simply because it fears it might cost the industry too much. The European Parliament has made clear that it is our health that should have first priority – not the big money of multinationals,” states Hazekamp. “Endocrine disruptors should be taken off the market instantly, and half-measures will not be accepted.”