Seventh Generation Expresses Support for VT Toxic Chemical Reform Legislation

BURLINGTON, VT--(Marketwired - Dec 11, 2013) - This morning Seventh Generation's CEO John Replogle convened a panel to discuss how statewide toxics regulation is not only good for Vermonters, but also for the environment, Vermont businesses and the Vermont brand. 

Panelists included Sarah Vose, Ph.D., State Toxicologist, VT Department of Health, and Ann Pugh, Chair of the House Committee on Human Services. The event was moderated by Paul Burns, executive director of the Vermont Public Research Interest Group.

The federal Toxic Substances Control Act of 1976 is failing to protect Vermonters from harmful chemicals in consumer products. Few chemicals have been tested for safety, and chemicals known to harm human health continue to be found in people's bodies, homes, and our natural environment. Vermont has regulated individual toxic chemicals, and now seeks to implement a program to more systematically assess the chemicals of highest concern, identify which products sold in Vermont contain these chemicals, and quickly phase the worst chemicals out of use in consumer products. California, Maine and Washington have passed similar statewide toxic chemical legislation.

Replogle urged other Vermont businesses to support the proposed legislation that will be under consideration at the State House this legislative session, noting that the reform would create more competitive, innovative, and economically sustainable industries.

"As business leaders in the state of Vermont, we need to make sure that we're thinking about protecting our own, the citizens of Vermont, from toxic chemical exposure," said Replogle. "By supporting this proposed legislation, we'll yet again assert our leadership as the Green Mountain State, an incubator for socially responsible business." 

ABOUT SEVENTH GENERATION
Established in 1988, in Burlington, Vermont, Seventh Generation is one of the nation's leading brands of household and personal care products. The company lives its commitment to "caring today for seven generations of tomorrows," with products formulated to provide mindful solutions for the air, surfaces, fabrics, pets and people within your home -- and for the community and environment outside of it. A pioneer in corporate responsibility, Seventh Generation continually evaluates ways to reduce its environmental impact, increase performance and safety, and create a more sustainable supply chain. To learn more about Seventh Generation products and business practices, locate a retailer in your area, or review Seventh Generation's Corporate Consciousness Report, visit www.seventhgeneration.com.