Bisphenol-A (BPA)

Bisphenol-A (BPA) is a chemical compound found in polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins that acts as an endocrine disruptor, meaning that it mimics the body's own hormones. Bisphenol-A has been linked to reproductive problems, cancer, obesity, early puberty, and neurological problems.

Infant, fetus, and childhood exposure to BPA is particularly concerning, as BPA is commonly used in baby bottles, sippy cups, and the lining of infant formula cans.

In 2010, WPSR and the Toxic Free Legacy Coalition worked to make Washington State a national leader in the movement to get BPA out of consumer products by helping to pass the Safe Baby Bottle Act. The new law bans BPA from sports water bottles and children's dishware. Washington was the second state in the nation to create a BPA ban.

Although it has been labeled a "chemical of concern" by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, BPA is still widely used in most states. Federal Regulation, like the Safe Chemicals Act, will likely be the most effective way to protect future generations.

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