The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency on March 1 unveiled its National Challenge Commitment for Priority Chemicals, a collaborative initiative with the industrial community. The EPA is challenging government and industrial facilities to reduce their use of one or more of the chemicals by 10 percent over three years.

"Reducing the volume of priority chemicals in products and waste can reduce toxic chemical releases, reduce handling and disposal costs, and increase recycling, resulting in both environmental and economic benefits," said Susan Bodine, assistant administrator of the EPA´s Office of Solid Waste and Emergency Response.

Additional information about the program is available online at www.epa.gov/epaoswer/osw/conserve/priorities/chemical.htm .