EPA finalizes guidance for measuring 6PPD & 6PPD-q in freshwater ecosystems

The EPA has issued new aquatic life criteria, including short-term (acute) screening values for 6PPD and 6PPD-Quinone (6PPD-q). "Aquatic life criteria" measure how much of a chemical can be present in surface water before it is likely to harm plant and animal life. The screening values are based on the latest scientific knowledge about the toxicity effects of 6PPD and 6PPD-q on aquatic organisms, including coho salmon, in freshwaters in the US. The values and methodology, known as EPA Method 1634, were published in the Federal Register under the Clean Water Act on June 10. Rubber & Plastics News has an excellent write-up on the new guidelines and the current status of lawsuits related to the use of 6PPD in tires.