Health groups sue EPA over insecticide that causes testicular damage in rats
Groups say EPA did not adequately consider adverse health effects to children when it approved the pesticide
TL;DR
- Public health groups are suing the EPA over the approval of isocycloseram, a "forever chemical" insecticide.
- Industry research suggests the pesticide can reduce testicle size, lower sperm count, and harm the liver in rats.
- Critics claim the EPA did not adequately assess risks to children and developing fetuses.
- The lawsuit points to the influence of former industry lobbyists within the EPA's chemical safety office.
- Isocycloseram is used on various food crops, lawns, and golf courses.
- PFAS chemicals, known as "forever chemicals," do not break down naturally and are linked to serious health problems.
- Australian regulators found the pesticide induced skeletal malformations in fetal rats, and other research suggested it may be carcinogenic.
- Approximately 60% of active ingredients approved in common pesticides over the last decade fit the definition of PFAS.
- Isocycloseram degrades into other persistent PFAS chemicals and poses risks to wildlife and pollinators.
- Concerns are raised about the EPA not considering cumulative exposure to multiple dangerous substances.
- Key leadership positions in the EPA's chemical safety office are held by individuals with backgrounds in pesticide and chemical industry lobbying.