Press Release: Commission proposes ban on dangerous flame retardant

On 30.1.01, the European Commission adopted a proposal to ban the marketing and use of a chemical flame retardant, pentabromodiphenyl ether (pentaBDE), from 1 July 2003. This brominated flame retardant is used in the production of polyurethane foam for furniture and upholstery. PentaBDE poses a risk to the environment, is bioaccumulating and has been found in breast milk in increasing concentrations. The Commission's proposal was presented to the Council of Ministers and European Parliament for final adoption.