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Toxic-Free Maine

We’re committed to protecting Maine's people, wildlife, and environment from toxic pollution and dedicated to promoting clean, sustainable industrial practices in Maine and around the nation. NRCM supports economic development and job creation through green chemistry, product stewardship and sustainable manufacturing. In-Depth Project Description

	Toxic Flame Retardants and Safer Products During the past half-century, thousands of chemical substances have been developed and put into commerce, including many everyday products, often with little information or consideration about their environmental or health implications.  Learn More
	Healthy Homes, Schools and Workplaces NRCM is committed to work to ensure that we live, learn and work in places that are free from toxic chemicals. We’ve also work educate Maine people about the toxic chemicals found in cleaning products, PVC plastic, electronics and other consumer products, food, indoor air and water. Learn More
	Electronic Waste and Other Solid Waste Issues Computer monitors. televisions and cell phones contain lead, mercury and other chemicals harmful to the environment and human health. NRCM's work has been successful in requiring manufacturers to safely collect and recycle their products. Learn More
	Mercury Pollution Mercury contamination of our waterways has led to fish consumption warnings. Children are especially at risk, yet mercury continues to be a pervasive health and environmental threat. Learn about NRCM’s successes in reducing in-state mercury sources and what you can do to help. Learn More

In-Depth Project Description

Toxic pollutants are a serious threat throughout our state, putting the health of our environment, wildlife, and people at risk. Old, dirty power plants and aging manufacturing facilities, many of them from out-of-state, emit mercury and other contaminants into our air and water. Maine's waterways are so contaminated by mercury and other pollutants that the Center for Disease Control has issued fish consumption warnings for all lakes and rivers. In addition, numerous solid waste issues concerning toxic trash, waste incineration and leaking landfills, still pose problems for many Maine communities.

But pollution from dirty power plants and aging manufacturing and solid waste facilities are only part of the problem. Recent scientific studies show that many industrial chemicals added to consumer products are building up in our bodies and wildlife. Many of these chemicals are toxic and have been linked to learning disabilities, immune dysfunction, hormone imbalances, reproductive problems, and cancer. They’re found in common household items such as televisions, furniture, and even toys.

NRCM has successfully led efforts resulting in legislation eliminating many sources of toxic pollution within the state. We work in conjunction with the Alliance for a Clean and Healthy Maine, a coalition of public health, labor, business and environmental organizations, to phase out toxic chemicals in favor of safer alternatives. As part of the solution, NRCM supports economic development and job creation through green chemistry, product stewardship and sustainable manufacturing. We’re committed to protecting Maine's people, wildlife, and environment from toxic pollution and dedicated to promoting clean, sustainable industrial practices in Maine and around the nation.

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Natural Resources Council of Maine, 3 Wade Street, Augusta, Maine 04330
Phone: (800) 287-2345   Staff Directory
Fax: (207) 622-4343   Email: nrcm@nrcm.org