It is time to act on endocrine disrupting chemicals.

The SIN List 2.0 shows the way forward.

The endocrine system is our control system.

This is where our hormones control everything from metabolism and mood to growth and development of organs.

Unfortunately some chemicals disrupt this vital system causing a wide range of health and environmental problems.

They are called endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs).

EDCs are linked to cancer, diabetes, behavioural and attention deficit disorders, reproductive disorders and impaired fertility.

EDCs are all around us. They can be found in everything from food packaging and cosmetics to cash receipts, toys and electric cables.

Despite the hazards and widespread use of EDCs, the EU has not taken enough action.

This is why the SIN List now highlights the need to act on EDCs.

As always, the SIN List identifiesSubstances of Very High Concern

The SIN List 2.0 adds 22 EDCs.

They are all identified by ChemSecas Substances of Very High Concern according to REACH criteria solely due to their endocrine disrupting properties.

This means that they should be put on the REACH candidate list along with other high concern chemicals.

And that companies should start to phase them out from their products.

3-benzylidene camphor4-methylbenzylidene camphor4-nitrophenol4,4´-dihydroxybenzophenoneBenzophenone-1Benzophenone-2Benzophenone-3ButylparabenDicyclohexyl phthalate (DCHP)Diethyl phthalate (DEP)Dihexyl phthalate (DHP)Ethylhexyl methoxycinnamateMetam natriumMethyl tertiary butyl ether (MTBE)PentachlorophenolPerchloroethylenePropylparabenQuadrosilanResorcinolTert-butylhydroxyanisole (BHA)ThiramZineb

The time has come to act on EDCs.

SIN 2.0 gives guidance on where to start.

Illustrations: Christofer Ahde