Office of Prevention, Pesticides and Toxic Substances
Using sound science as a compass, OPPTS' mission is to protect you, your family, and the environment from potential risks from pesticides and toxic chemicals. Through innovative partnerships and collaboration we also work to prevent pollution before it begins. This reduces waste, saves energy and natural resources, and leaves our homes, schools and workplaces cleaner and safer. Read more basic information.
Recent highlights
November 19, 2009
Call for 2010 Green Chemistry Nominations Issued - EPA is accepting nominations for the 15th annual Green Chemistry Challenge Awards by December 31, 2009. The awards recognize innovative chemical technologies that incorporate green chemistry into the design, manufacture, and use of chemicals, and that have broad applications in industry.
November 4, 2009
Pesticide Spray and Dust Drift - To better protect people and the environment from off-target spray and dust drift, EPA is proposing new guidance for pesticide product labeling. When implemented, EPA's draft Pesticide Registration (PR) Notice on Pesticide Drift Labeling will improve the clarity and consistency of pesticide labels, and help prevent harm by prohibiting pesticide drift that could cause an adverse health or environmental effect.
October 30, 2009
Carbofuran Tolerances Revoked - EPA is moving forward to implement its May 2009 final rule revoking tolerances, or residue limits, for the pesticide carbofuran. EPA
continues to find that dietary exposures to carbofuran from all sources combined are not safe.
October 29, 2009
Chemical Testing for Potential Hormone Effects Ordered - EPA has issued the first test orders for pesticide chemicals to be screened for their potential effects on the endocrine system. Endocrine disruptors are chemicals that interact with and disrupt the hormones produced or secreted by the human or animal endocrine system, which regulates growth, metabolism and reproduction.
October 22, 2009
Lead - EPA responded to a stakeholder petition on lead, and agreed to revisit the current lead dust hazards standard and to work with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to modify the definition of lead-based paint in its regulations. EPA is also proposing to expand coverage of its 2008 Renovation, Repair and Painting Rule as part of its ongoing commitment to eliminate lead poisoning. The proposed rule would eliminate an exemption from the RRP rule.
October 20, 2009
New Information on Insect Repellents - EPA has launched a new Web page containing product information on certain skin-applied insect repellents. The new Web page will provide the public with information on registered insect repellents and their effectiveness claims in a clear, consistent, and user-friendly format.
News Releases - Pesticides and Toxic Chemicals
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