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Comparing Chemicals

The United States and European Union have differing philosophical approaches to regulating the use of chemicals in consumer products. The European Union takes a precautionary approach, while the United States' model is more reactionary, relying on exhaustive scientific testing before individual chemicals are banned. In 2008, California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger signed two bills that more closely follow the standards set by the E.U.

The result is a confusing and complex web of chemical regulations, illustrated below. This NPR-produced interactive expands on issues discussed in KQED's series on regulating phthalates and other chemicals in consumer products.

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