UPSC Prelims 2014 Q16: Environment & Ecology – Pollution & Waste Management
Brominated flame retardants are used in many household products like mattresses and
upholstery. Why is there some concern about their use?
1. They are highly resistant to degradation in the environment.
2. They are able to accumulate in humans and animals.
Select the correct answer
using the code given below.
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 only
- (c) Both 1 and 2
- (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: (c) Both 1 and 2
Explanation
Brominated flame retardants (BFRs)
BFRs are chemicals added to foam, textiles, plastics and electronics to slow the spread of fire.
| Statement | Verdict | Fact |
|---|---|---|
| 1. They are highly resistant to degradation in the environment | Correct | They are persistent: they stay for years in soil, water and dust |
| 2. They are able to accumulate in humans and animals | Correct | They are fat-soluble and bioaccumulate up the food chain |
Why they are a concern:
| Issue | Detail |
|---|---|
| Health | Linked to hormone (thyroid) disruption and harm to brain development |
| Found in | Breast milk, blood, fish and house dust |
| Regulation | Several, such as PBDEs and HBCD, are listed under the Stockholm Convention on persistent organic pollutants |
| E-waste | Burning old electronics releases them |
Answer: (c) Both 1 and 2.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. Statement 2 is also true: they accumulate in humans and animals.
- (b) Incorrect. Statement 1 is also true: they resist degradation in the environment.
- (c) CORRECT. BFRs are persistent and bioaccumulative, which is why their use causes concern.
- (d) Incorrect. Both statements give real reasons for concern.
Key point
Brominated flame retardants (PBDEs, HBCD): persistent and bioaccumulative; hormone disruptors; several listed under the Stockholm Convention.
Remember
BFRs: do not break down, build up in bodies.
Common mistakes
- Thinking a safety chemical in household products cannot be harmful.
- Not linking 'persistent' and 'accumulate' to persistent organic pollutants.
- Confusing brominated flame retardants with brominated vegetable oil in soft drinks.
Exam tip
Persistent + bioaccumulative = persistent organic pollutant = Stockholm Convention.
Sources
- Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants — Listed chemicals (PBDEs, HBCD)
- UN Environment Programme — Persistent Organic Pollutants