EPA Stops Importation of Chemical Harmful to Wildlife.
EPA Stops Importation of short-chained chlorinated paraffins (SCCPs) that are harmful to wildlife.
SCCPs used as lubricants and coolants for metal working and as plasticizers and flame retardants in plastics, are persistent, bioaccumulative, and toxic to aquatic life. Even relatively small releases of these chemicals from individual manufacturing, processing, or waste management facilities have the potential to accumulate over time to higher levels and have been detected in wildlife and humans.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a settlement with INEOS Chlor Americas, Inc., based in Wilmington, Del., to resolve violations of the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). INEOS allegedly imported various chain-length chlorinated paraffins into the United States without providing the required notice to EPA. INEOS will also pay a $175,000 civil penalty. This is an excerpt from an EPA announcement posted August 22, 2012.