March 25

Sens. Carl Levin, D-Mich., and George Voinovich, R-Ohio, have introduced legislation limiting phosphates in automatic dishwashing detergents, which would help to reduce phosphate pollution that wreaks havoc on aquatic plants and fish in the Great Lakes and other waters.

Excessive phosphorus in water-bodies accelerates the rapid growth of algae, which blocks light and kills plants. Bacteria consume the dead vegetation, which deprives the water-body of its remaining oxygen. Fish and other aquatic organisms die, creating what are known as "dead zones."

Certain algal blooms also can produce neurotoxins that can be harmful when ingested by humans.

The bill also requires the EPA to further study the issue and report back to Congress.

Contact Waste & Recycling News senior reporter Bruce Geiselman at 330-865-6172 or bgeiselman@crain.com

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