US EPA to Conduct TSCA Risk Evaluation for 1,3-Butadiene

On September 18, 2024, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced that it would conduct a draft risk evaluation for the chemical substance 1,3-butadiene and is seeking nominations for scientific and technical experts to serve as members of the peer review panel. This initiative is in accordance with the requirements of the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), aimed at assessing whether the chemical poses an unreasonable risk to human health or the environment.

1,3-Butadiene is a volatile, colorless gas widely used in petrochemical processing and the production of various polymers and elastomers. According to EPA data, the annual production volume of this chemical ranges between 1 and 5 billion pounds. It is primarily transmitted through air, with low water solubility, and environmental release data shows that over 98% of 1,3-butadiene emissions enter the atmosphere. The EPA has classified 1,3-butadiene as a human carcinogen, and epidemiological studies have shown that exposure to 1,3-butadiene is associated with an increased incidence of leukemia among workers. Additionally, the chemical may cause reduced fetal weight and hematological effects.

The purpose of the EPA's risk evaluation is to evaluate chemicals listed as high priority under section 6(b) of TSCA. This risk evaluation will include assessments of physical and chemical properties, environmental fate and transport, environmental releases, exposures among workers and the general population, as well as assessments of environmental and human health risks. For more information about the three stages of the TSCA risk evaluation process for existing chemicals ( i.e., prioritization, risk evaluation, and risk management), go to https://www.epa.gov/assessing-and-managing-chemicals-under-tsca

To ensure the scientific integrity and accuracy of the evaluation, the EPA is seeking public nominations for scientists and technical experts to participate in the peer review by the Science Advisory Committee on Chemicals (SACC). Nominations are due by October 18. The SACC is an independent advisory group consisting of 20 members with expertise in toxicology, environmental risk assessment, exposure assessment, and other areas. The EPA plans to publish the draft risk assessment in the Federal Register in the fall of 2024 and solicit public comments. Peer review is scheduled to take place in early 2025.

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Further Information

Federal Register