Document k8RMNpJ3MZgEv4Dbm0aEDV3D

J. H. Craddock - B3NA (4-4764) October 5, 1983 PCBs -- Europe W. B. Papageorge - B3NA M. C. Throdahl - DID At the recent OECD PCB seminar at The Hague last week (attended by Carl Larsen and Alf. Vodden, part-time, and me) the consensus appeared to be that common market nations will enact stringent PCB regulations, including a ban similar to the U.S. The Germans, Dutch and Scandinavians are pushing strongly for a PCB ban as soon as possible. The British and French are looking for more moderate PCB controls and rules. U.S.-EPA participants told both Larsen and me separately that they thought the EEC actions would occur within three years. Both U.S. environmentalists and EPA staff were very active and vocal participants in the conference. However, their comments and actions were not universally well received by the European scientists and regulators. While in Europe, I also reviewed the actions taken by Monsanto Environ mental Operations -- Europe-Africa - with respect to PCBs, including a visit and discussions at the Antwerp Plant with operating personnel and the plant manager. Larsen has taken the initiative, and if Antwerp is the gauge for the rest of our manufacturing facilities there, we are in excellent shape regardless of what course PCB rules take there. Procedures are in place for marking, handling and disposing of PCBs and related equipment. The staffs are informed (MSDS and other materials) and are not overly concerned about PCBs despite barrages from time to time in the local media. They have done a good job in Europe following Carl's lead to integrate Monsanto's U.S. recommendations and guidelines for PCBs into their normal environment working policies. ' / /' S' z / ;J. H. Craddock / dg V ~ 7 7. 0755368 TOWOLDMONOQ59930