Our major focus on toxics in Puget Sound includes 1) prevention of pollution entering the Sound; 2) accelerated cleanup of contaminated sites; and 3) expanded source controls.  A major focus is in the Duwamish, where we are working in collaboration with the Duwamish River Cleanup Coalition. We also assess mixing zones in Puget Sound related to EPA National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permits.

PBTs (persistent bioaccumulative toxins)
Over the past five years, the Department of Ecology has developed a groundbreaking program to phase out some of the deadliest toxic discharges in Washington. PBTs include chemicals like mercury, dioxin, and PCBs. These chemicals build up in the food chain and are extremely toxic even in very small quantities.

 PBDEs (polybrominated diphenyl ethers)
PBDEs are found in flame retardants and are a threat to public health and the environment. They persist in the environment and build up in the environment and in our bodies. They also are toxic at low levels. Studies on laboratory animals have shown that PBDEs can impair memory and learning, alter behavior, delay sexual development, and disturb thyroid hormone levels, among other toxic effects.

TOXIC TOYS AND MAKEUP
A large part of Puget Sound's pollution comes from products in our homes. 
Shampoos, deodorants, hair relaxers, and liquid soaps contain phthalates and other toxic chemicals. They are washed off in the shower into our sewage or accumulate in dust in our homes.  Vinyl shower curtains, vinyl bibs, electronics, and toys contain phthalates, flame retardants, lead, cadmium that also contribute to the toxic buildup in our homes and bodies.  Building materials such as carpet glues, paints, vinyl siding, and lead pipes add to the toxic threat.