SACRAMENTO - Today the Air Resources Board adopted regulations that will reduce air pollution from 11 categories of consumer products including bug sprays and a variety of household and professionally-used cleaners (link).
The new regulations target volatile organic compounds and toxic air contaminants and when fully implemented will cut these emissions by about 7 tons per day, reduce airborne carcinogens, minimize potential greenhouse gas emissions and protect aquatic species from chemical runoff.
The regulations will be fully effective December 31, 2013.
"ARB works with manufacturers to assure their products are effective but safe for the environment," said ARB Chairman Mary D. Nichols. "These regulations are an example of how ARB balances public health with business interests."
The new regulations address the emissions from a range of consumer product categories including insecticides, general purpose cleaners and degreasers, glass cleaners, and oven and grill cleaners.
ARB estimates the reduction of air pollution to be the equivalent of removing 500,000 vehicles from California's roads.