Stewardship Tip Nov 3rd, 2009- Nonylphenols
In the United States, the nonionic surfactant nonylphenol ethoxylates (NPEs) belongs to a class of compounds called alkylphenol ethoxylates (APEs). NPEs are the preferred surfactant in many detergents because of their properties as outstanding dispersants, wetting agents, and emulsifiers. They work well with little need for other additives. They are also inexpensive. NPEs break down into nonylphenols in the environment.
Why are nonylphenols important to our fish: Nonylphenols can act as endocrine disruptors. According to H. L. Schoenfuss, et al, low doses of nonylphenols primed males for breeding competition; however, higher exposures inhibited their breeding behavior.
It makes sense to select detergents that do not use NPEs as surfactants. When choosing detergents at the store, avoid products that contain the following:
2,6-Dimethyl-4-heptylphenol
p-Nonylphenol, branched
Here’s the rub. Detergent manufacturers are not required by law to disclose their contents. Many manufacturers, however, are taking responsibility and listing their contents. Many, moreover, state, on the label, that their products are free of NPEs.
Take the time to examine the label of your detergent before you buy. We think that it is worthwhile to reward manufacturers who state what is in their product. We feel that it is doubly important reward those who help to keep nonylphenols out of our environment by offering NPE free detergent.
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This week’s sponsor-partner:Seventh Generation
Seventh Generation derives its name from the great law of the Iroquois that states, “in our every deliberation, we must consider the impact of our decisions on the next seven generations.”
Every time you use a Seventh Generation product you are making a difference by saving natural resources, reducing pollution, keeping toxic chemicals out of the environment and making the world a safer place for this and the next seven generations.
Seventh Generation’s
partnership helps make this week’s Stewardship Tip possible.
In addition to their partnership to sponsor this week’s Stewardship Tip, we would like to thank them for sponsoring the Recycled Fish 24 Hour Fish a Thon.
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