Pocket Guide for Chemicals of Emerging concern (2010)

HTO has compiled this list of chemicals that are found in household products including pharmaceuticals, personal care products, cosmetics, fabrics, and plastic storage ware. These chemicals enter domestic wastewater, are not completely removed by wastewater treatment, and are considered by the State of California to be toxic to aquatic organisms. Effects due to disruption of endocrine (hormone) function are known to occur at very low concentrations (similar to those in treatment plant effluent). This guide is not a complete list of CECs that may cause disruption of aquatic ecosystems, but avoiding any of these substances will help improve the quality of our waters. We at HTO hope you shop with the guide for the health of the ocean.

The general rule: if you can’t pronounce it, don’t buy it!