Document Dvn7n40D2L2noZebGpBLNGYBQ

Chemical Age September 10, 1971 ^ Temporary ban urged for PCB at Dutch chemists' congress At a congress of the Koninklijke Ncder* Inndsc Chunische Vercmging (society of Dutch chemist*) at Hllvcrsum. Prof H. van Genderen his urged for i temporary ban on the use of PCB since there is so little known aboot these products. These chemicals nre claimed to be so persistent that even after a general ban they will remain in the environment. It is expected in the near future that the Dutch govern* mrr>t wtll lake measures to restrict the osc of PC'B. According to Prof van Ocndcren "we are in for some unpleasant surprises", since research on PCB has only covered a small number of animal species. It is quite possible that the poisonous influence may have exterminated smaller organisms com* pletely by the time research has been in tensified. A recent study baa shown that the main rivers nre the most important source of pollution. PCB was first introduced in 1929 for transformers because of its isolating properties. Later application in paints, glue and cardboard production which brought PCB in contact with air and water and started to cause concern. So far only Monsanto hnve recognised the dinger of PCB, and have decided to supply the product only if it is used for a closed electrical system. This action has caused them a loss or turnover of S25 million/year. A spokesman of Progil at the congress staled that his compuny will make a decision by the end of >972 about the sales of PCB. Their plant, however, could he changed over to the production of lower chlorinated PCB which is supposed ^ to_be less dangerous. ff'<*J 7*.' to 5 J. HONS 032287