BY Susan Hertzberg

On November 22nd, 2010, BCAM welcomed Bev Thorpe of Clean Production Action to lead its annual workshop, this year exploring the topic of Clean Chemistry.   Participants were introduced to the objectives of Green Chemistry which include developing safer chemicals and therefore products with little or no toxicity; creating chemicals and products that are biodegradable; minimizing the potential for accidents such as explosions, fires and chemical releases into the environment. Bev’s presentation stressed the need for green chemicals, sustainable materials and environmentally safe products. The curious and concerned attendees were given useful tips on how to become informed consumers, or “chemical detectives.” These are some of Bev’s suggestions:

•           Look for products with full ingredient disclosure – compliant companies will have this information on their websites.

•           Products will also display certification credentials such as Cradle to Cradle® Certification, Design for the Environment (EPA), or Environmental Protection and Encouragement Agency (EPEA).

•           Eco-labels are consumer guides to environmental sustainability; according to Industry Canada, the use of eco-labels in Canada is low.

•           The Good Guide provides information about healthy, green, ethical products based on scientific ratings and can be found at www.goodguide.com.  If you have an iPhone, you can download an App that allows you to scan merchandise at the store to quickly find out its rating.

•         Demand safer products from manufacturers – more demand gives companies an incentive to make important changes.

•           Use comprehensive information sources such as the Skin Deep cosmetic – and personal care product – safety database (Environmental Working Group) and the Green Guide to Electronics (Greenpeace) to help with consumer decision-making.

If you missed Bev’s presentation, you can view the PowerPoint version: “Is This Product Safe? Playing Chemical Detective” at www.bcam.qc.ca.

Beverley Thorpe is the International Director of Clean Production Action and has researched clean production strategies since 1989.  She is also a board member of the Green Chemistry Network in the UK, The Story of Stuff Project in the U.S., and Greenpeace Canada. Her current focus is the promotion of Green Chemistry regarding government chemicals policies and business practices.