Advocacy for Better Regulation of Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals

Advocacy for Better Regulation of Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals - The Endocrine Society is the voice of science in policy discussions around the globe concerning endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs).  As a result of our work, policy makers now recognize EDCs as a hazardous class of chemicals, support research that studies environmental exposures and their impact on human health and are developing legislation and regulations to better regulate EDCs.

• Reports on EDCs: The Endocrine Society worked with the International Pollutants Elimination Network (IPEN) to create and disseminate a collaborative report, “Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals: Threats to Human Health” as well as an updated version of a report titled “Plastics, EDCs, and Health: Authoritative Guide”. 
• Scientific Statements on EDCs: The Endocrine Society was the first scientific organization to develop a statement on what the science tells us about EDCs and make policy recommendations. This statement continues to be used to influence policy. Endocrine Society member Andrea C. Gore, PhD led this effort. 
• Estimates of the Costs of Health Effects from EDCs: The Endocrine Society was the only scientific organization to publish the estimated cost of health effects from EDCs.  This work grabbed the attention of policy makers in the EU and continues to drive action. Endocrine Society member Leonardo Trasande, MD, MPP conducted the study.
• Use of Science in Regulatory Decisions: The Endocrine Society routinely submits the latest scientific evidence to regulatory agencies to ensure that regulations are based on up-to-date knowledge of the effects of chemicals on endocrine systems.  In 2023, we influenced a decision made by the European Food Safety Agency to lower the exposure limits to BPA in food.
• Global Plastics Treaty Negotiations: The Endocrine Society is a leading scientific voice in United Nations negotiations to develop an international treaty to end plastic pollution.  Endocrine Society member Marina Fernandez, PhD, has spoken during plenary sessions and throughout the treaty process to ensure that health-focused objectives, including measures to reduce exposure to EDCs in plastic, are included in the treaty.
• Advising the European Commission on Legislation to Implement the EU Ambition for a “Toxic-Free” Environment: The Endocrine Society holds a position on the group advising the EU Commission. Endocrine Society member Anne-Simone Parent, MD, PhD represents the Society.

More information about the Endocrine Society’s advocacy on EDCs can be found here.