WASHINGTON
,
April 6, 2022
(press release)
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Raises Concerns Around Process Irregularities, Conflicts of Interest, and Potential Bias The IRIS program’s approach to performing scientific assessments has a troubling history and has been criticized for years for producing overly conservative reports that are out of step with current science. Utilizing public documents obtained through the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), ACC’s analysis reveals a troubling pattern of process irregularities, lack of independence, bias, and conflicts of interest that demonstrates a need for greater scrutiny and transparency. More specifically, ACC’s topline findings reveal: Industry has consistently called for any formaldehyde assessment to use transparent, science-based standards and has diligently supported peer-reviewed published studies that improve understanding of formaldehyde. “The IRIS program is not fulfilling its mission. The program has long had deficiencies, especially as it relates to formaldehyde. ACC has consistently called upon EPA to improve the design and conduct of its chemical assessments,” said Chris Jahn, President and CEO, ACC. Chris Jahn, President and CEO, American Chemistry Council Immediate steps include: For more details about our investigation, including relevant documents obtained through FOIA, please visit our website at AmericanChemistry.com/TheRealStory. American Chemistry Council
Today, the American Chemistry Council (ACC) is releasing findings from its review of the processes for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Integrated Risk Information System’s (IRIS) draft formaldehyde assessment that suggest the draft document will fail to meet the agency’s standards for unwavering transparency, scientific integrity, and a robust, independent peer review process.
Now, our findings have brought to light what we’ve long known—the draft formaldehyde IRIS assessment is riddled with questionable decisions, poor process, and conflicts of interest.
“ACC is requesting EPA take immediate steps to ensure that the draft formaldehyde IRIS assessment isn’t used as a risk communication tool, to guide regulations, nor to set policy at any level of government until EPA corrects the process errors and produces a document that meets scientific standards worthy of public confidence,” said Dr. Kimberly Wise White, Vice President of Regulatory & Scientific Affairs, ACC. “Time and time again, we have tried to provide solutions to help the program enhance its scientific integrity and transparency. Our hope is this analysis sheds light on ways the IRIS program can restore its credibility.”
The American Chemistry Council (ACC) represents the leading companies engaged in the multibillion-dollar business of chemistry. ACC members apply the science of chemistry to make innovative products, technologies and services that make people's lives better, healthier and safer. ACC is committed to improved environmental, health, safety and security performance through Responsible Care®; common sense advocacy addressing major public policy issues; and health and environmental research and product testing. ACC members and chemistry companies are among the largest investors in research and development, and are advancing products, processes and technologies to address climate change, enhance air and water quality, and progress toward a more sustainable, circular economy.
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