PBDElisäaineet

PBDElisäaineet, or Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs), are a group of brominated flame retardants that have been widely used in consumer products to reduce flammability. They were incorporated into plastics, textiles, and electronics to help prevent fires. Common applications included furniture foam, computer casings, and wiring. PBDEs are not chemically bound to the products they are added to, meaning they can leach out into the environment over time.

Exposure to PBDEs can occur through dust, diet, and indoor air. Once in the body, they can accumulate in fatty tissues and have been detected in human blood, breast milk, and organs. Studies have raised concerns about the potential health effects of PBDEs, including endocrine disruption, developmental neurotoxicity, and reproductive issues. Due to these concerns, the use of certain PBDE congeners has been restricted or phased out in many parts of the world.

The environmental persistence and bioaccumulative nature of PBDEs mean they can be found globally, even in remote regions. They can transfer through food chains, leading to higher concentrations in top predators. Research continues to investigate the long-term impacts of PBDE exposure on both human health and ecosystems. While some PBDEs have been banned, their legacy persists in older products and the environment, necessitating ongoing monitoring and management efforts.