PBDE Flame Retardants Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs) are bromine-based chemicals used as flame retardants that can be found in household products such as computers, televisions, mobile phones, furniture, and texitles. While this chemical additive offers protection from fire, these chemicals persist in the environment and can be found in breast milk, passing from mother to infant. So far, most side effects have only appeared in rodents in labs. Some side effects of PBDEs include autism, attention deficit disorder, cerebral palsy, and mental retardation. PBDEs also disrupt proper thyroid functioning. recent studies have found links between flame retardants and cat thyroid disease. While high levels have been found in fish and other species, the effects on most of God's creation is unknown. Humans can be exposed through eating fish or animals with high levels of PBDEs, especailly animals with a lot of fatty tissue. Exposure can also occur through household dust and direct contact with certain plastics. PBDEs are a concern for our children and pregnant mothers because of their bioaccumulative effect (magnifying as it moves up the food chain)and the increased levels in humans. Currently, people in North America carry 40% more PBDEs in their bodies than people on any other continent. There are three PBDEs that are particularly harmful. The manufacturer of Penta- and Octa- is currently phasing out use of these classes of flame retardants. Penta: Used in polyurethane foam such as in mattresses, seat cushions, other upholstered furniture and rigid insulation. Octa: Used in high-impact plastics such as fax machines and computers, automobile trim, telephones and kitchen appliances. Deca: Used in carpet foam pads, draperies, television sets, computers, stereos and other electronics, cable insulation, adhesives, and textile coating. While it is important to protect children from fires, it is equally important to make sure that they have the opportunity to have healthy minds and bodies. By promoting alternatives that are pure from toxics, we can ensure this. What we can do Buy products with natural fibers such as cotton and wool, which are naturally fire resistant. Write a letter, make a phone call, or visit your state legislators and ask them to ban Deca- in your state. For more information Michigan Children’s Environmental Health Network Pocket sized quick tips Washington State Department of Ecology PBDE website More on Environmental Health topics from the NCC Environmental Health- Home Toxics Environmental Justice and Health Children’s and Women’s Health Lead NEW Pesticides Cosmetics NEW Our daily Bread- Food and Health Plastics Mercury- Our Children’s Inheritance Air Quality Flame Retardants Take Action!