Brominated flame retardants are used in many household products like mattresses and upholstery. Why is there some concern about their use?

1. They are highly resistant to degradation in the environment.
2. They are able to accumulate in humans and animals.

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

[UPSC Civil Services Exam – 2014 Prelims]

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(c) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: (c)        

Explanation:

Brominated flame retardants

• In the European Union the use of certain BFRs is banned or restricted; however, due to their persistence in the environment there are still concerns about the risks these chemicals pose to public health.
• BFR-treated products, whether in use or waste, leach BFRs into the environment and contaminate the air, soil and water.
• These contaminants may then enter the food chain where they mainly occur in food of animal origin, such as fish, meat, milk and derived products.