Lumber Industry To Remove Arsenic-Based Pesticide
Change Due To Consumer Demand, Not EPA Requirements
WASHINGTON -- Lumber companies said they will stop using arsenic-based preservatives in wood for decks, playground equipment and picnic tables.
The decision follows discussions with the Environmental Protection Agency. It would end the use of chromated copper arsenate, also known as CCA, by December 2003 in almost all lumber used for residential projects. This year alone, manufacturers expect a decline in production of CCA products for affected residential uses up to 25 percent
By January 2004, the EPA will not allow CCA products for any of these residential uses.
CCA is a powerful pesticide used to protect lumber from decay and insect damage.
"Today's announcement greatly accelerates the transition to new alternatives, responding to marketplace demands for wood products that do not contain CCA," EPA Administrator Christie Whitman said.
Arsenic causes cancer, but an industry official said CCA-treated wood is safe. Industry officials said the change to a different copper-based preservative is a response to consumer demand.
"This is a responsible action by the industry," Whitman said. "The companies deserve credit for coming forward in a voluntary way to undergo a conversion and retooling of their plants as quickly as possible."
The EPA does not believe there is any reason to remove or replace CCA-treated structures, including decks or playground equipment. The agency is not recommending that existing structures or surrounding soils be removed or replaced.
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