US EPA announces final bans on manufacture, processing, & use of trichloroethylene & perchloroethylene

Sub : Env

Sec :Pollution

Context:

On December 9, 2024, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced new risk management rules for trichloroethylene (TCE) and perchloroethylene (PCE) under the 2016 Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA).
These rules are considered a significant step toward chemical safety after decades of inadequate regulations.

Key Provisions of the Rules:

Complete Ban:
- All uses of trichloroethylene (TCE).
- All consumer uses and many commercial uses of perchloroethylene (PCE).
Worker Protections:
- Strict safeguards for all remaining industrial uses under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) framework.

Background on TCE and PCE Risk:

In January 2023, the EPA released a revised risk determination for TCE, identifying 52 out of 54 uses as posing an unreasonable risk to human health.
American Chemistry Council (ACC): Expressed concerns over banning valuable industrial uses of TCE.
Environmental and Legal Issues: June 2024 Lawsuit: EnPro Industries and others were accused of discharging TCE into the environment in Water Valley, Mississippi, contaminating soil, air, and groundwater, resulting in a cancer cluster.

Trichloroethylene (TCE) and Perchloroethylene (PCE):

Trichloroethylene (TCE) and Perchloroethylene (PCE) are industrial solvents widely used in manufacturing and cleaning processes.
Both chemicals are volatile organic compounds (VOCs) known for their effectiveness in dissolving oils, grease, and other substances.
Despite their utility, they pose significant risks to human health and the environment.

Applications

Trichloroethylene (TCE)

Used primarily as:
- A degreasing agent for metal parts in manufacturing.
- A solvent in adhesives, paints, and coatings.
Historically used in dry cleaning, though this use has decreased due to health concerns.

Perchloroethylene (PCE)

Predominantly used in:
- Dry cleaning of fabrics.
- Metal degreasing processes.
- Manufacturing of fluorinated compounds and other chemicals.
Found in consumer products like stain removers and cleaning agents.

Health Hazards

Both TCE and PCE have been classified as hazardous chemicals with severe health effects.

Trichloroethylene (TCE):

Carcinogenic: Strongly linked to kidney cancer and Non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
Other health effects: Liver damage, Immune system suppression, Developmental and reproductive toxicity, Neurological effects, including dizziness, headaches, and long-term cognitive impairment.

Perchloroethylene (PCE):

Carcinogenic: Associated with bladder cancer and potential links to other cancers.
Other health effects: Liver and kidney toxicity, Neurological effects, such as confusion, memory loss, and mood changes, Adverse impacts on reproductive health.

Environmental Impacts:

Persistence: Both TCE and PCE are highly persistent in the environment, contaminating soil, air, and groundwater for decades.
Groundwater Contamination: Often found in drinking water supplies due to improper disposal or accidental spills.
Volatility: Release into the air can contribute to smog and indoor air pollution in enclosed spaces.

Source: DTE