Publication Summary

This is the final version of the Chemical Action Plan (CAP) for a class of flame retardants called polybrominated diphenyl ethers, or PBDEs. It is the second CAP done as part of the Department of Ecology (Ecology)′s Proposed Strategy to Continually Reduce Persistent, Bioaccumulative Toxins (PBTs) in Washington State (issued December, 2000). Ecology is also finalizing a rule (Chapter 173-333 WAC, Persistent Bioaccumulative Toxins Regulation) to guide the development of CAPs. This CAP is consistent with both the Strategy and the PBT rule. The first CAP, for mercury, was completed in January 2003.

In January 2004, Governor Locke directed Ecology, in consultation with the Department of Health (DOH), to investigate and recommend options to reduce the threat of PBDEs in the environment. The final result is this PBDE CAP, which has been developed through a multi-program, multi-agency effort, with external stakeholders involved at each step. External advisory committees included representatives from such varied interests as business and consumer and environmental protection.