Massachusetts News

Learn about flame retardants, chemicals that are added to everyday products such as highchairs, car seats, nursing pads, upholstered furniture, carpet pads, nap mats, strollers, electronics (including toys) and many more common household products. Many flame retardants are hazardous to our health. Over time flame retardants escape from the products they are used in and get into the air and dust around us. 

Learn more about PFAS, a class of chemicals that are used to make products grease proof, waterproof and stain resistant. PFAS chemicals have been dubbed “forever chemicals” because they and their breakdown products are extremely persistent, lasting thousands of years or more. Unfortunately, they are also linked to a wide array of serious health problems.

As many of us, including most of Clean Water Action’s staff, find ourselves inside and working from home, we are still seeking connection with our community. We have been inspired by the online response, and have listed some of our favorites here. We hope you enjoy them - and check back regularly for updates!

We want to hear your story. Make a quick video on your phone to lift up environmental justice. Please email us the video or post it online with the tag “#EJ4MA.” If you need some tips, we have a brief guide here. 

In an economy designed to consume as much as possible as often as possible, it’s no surprise that we churn through products so rapidly that we are facing an escalating planetary waste crisis.

A new report reveals that many of North America’s largest retail companies are embracing chemical safety policies to help protect consumers from toxic chemicals in products.