ic knowledge with an aim to address concerns
about the potential adverse health effects of
chemicals on humans and wildlife.
In general, previous assessments of EDCs
were primarily focused on POPs, but this report
has broadened the scope to include less per-
Polycarbonate baby bottles that contain
bisphenol A are prohibited in Canada.
sistent and less bioaccumulative organic chemicals, such as current-use pesticides, plasticizers, pharmaceuticals, natural hormones, and
phytoestrogens, as well as metals.
The report organizes endocrine disrupting
chemicals into eleven broad classes based on
their physical-chemical characteristics or origin/
application areas. Examples of the classes include: Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs):
PCDDs/PCDFs, PCBs, HCB, Mirex, Endosulfan, etc.; Plasticizers and Other Additives in
Materials and Goods: Phthalate esters (DEHP,
BBP, DBP, DiNP), Triclocarban, Butylated hydroxyanisole, etc.; Polycyclic Aromatic Chemicals (PACs) including PAHs: Benzo(a)pyrene,
Pyrene, Anthracene, etc..
Bisphenol A
Bisphenol A has been generally accepted
as a known EDC. As a result, countries are relying on the precautionary principle to take legislative action. Bisphenol A is used primarily as a
Enhesa Flash Feb/Mar 2014
formulant in the manufacture of polycarbonate
plastic and epoxy resins. Polycarbonates have
wide application in consumer products (e.g. repeat-use polycarbonate containers), in medical
devices, glazing applications, film and the electronics indus