Reducing hazardous chemicals in the home

Over the last few months the Total Environment Centre (TEC) has been driving a number of exciting projects amongst community groups across NSW, creating greater awareness of hazardous chemicals in the home.

Safer Solutions workshops conducted by community educators in Lismore, Penrith and Randwick local government areas have provided parents and carers at playgroups and childcare centres with practical information on eliminating and reducing hazardous chemical use in and around the home.

A first for the project, the Safer Solutions website will also soon be launched to the public. The website will provide a one-stop-shop of information and advice on hazardous chemicals found in common cleaning products, indoor and outdoor pest control products and DIY renovation materials. It will also include a comprehensive A-Z of chemicals in the home, downloadable publications, and advice on safer alternatives.

Several research projects to support the development of Safer Solutions are also in motion. Through this work TEC has identified a significant knowledge gap in the community's understanding of the actual quantities and types of hazardous chemical containing products that householders purchase and use within the home. In response, TEC in association with ACF Greenhome will be piloting chemical home audits in the Sydney area later this year.

> More information

Website: tec.org.au