YOU ARE INVITED TO PARTICIPATE IN A FORUM ON SAFER CONSUMER PRODUCTS

In collaboration with the Environmental Health Strategy Center (EHSC), MERI is hosting a consumer focus group at the MERI Center, Blue Hill, on Thursday, September 13, from 5:30 - 7pm to discuss what consumers would like to know about product safety before making purchasing decisions.

Caveat Emptor! Let the buyer beware because the American public is not currently protected by strong legislation that would guide buying choices or prevent potentially harmful chemicals from being used in household products and home furnishings.

EHSC is conducting focus groups throughout Maine to ask the public what kinds of information would help consumers select safer products in the store.

Under current Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) regulations, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) can call for safety testing only after evidence surfaces demonstrating a chemical is dangerous. As a result, there are over 8,000 chemicals currently sold commercially that have never been tested for their impact on human health or the environment.

In opening remarks, MERI Director and Senior Scientist Dr. Susan Shaw will talk about MERI’s toxic chemicals research and the importance of evaluating the chemicals in lawn care and gardening products before purchase. Herbicides and pesticides can cause serious marine pollution.

If you would like to participate in this MERI focus group, please RSVP to the MERI Center, 55 Main St., Blue Hill (207) 374-2135 or at info@meriresearch.org to ensure that there is seating for everyone.