What Are the Environmental Risks of Ethylene Oxide Products?

Ethylene oxide products create significant environmental risk by releasing harmful chemicals into the air and water. Inhalation and environmental exposure raise concern for public health, as studies link this compound to respiratory, cardiovascular, and neurological problems. The table below highlights recent findings on the impact of exposure on both people and the environment:

Key Takeaways

• Ethylene oxide products pose serious health risks, including increased cancer risk and respiratory issues. Awareness of these dangers is crucial for public safety.
• Industries must adopt safer sterilization practices to reduce environmental emissions. Implementing advanced technologies can significantly lower risks.
• Communities should monitor air quality near ethylene oxide facilities. Staying informed about local emissions helps protect public health.
• Consumers can reduce exposure by choosing ethylene oxide-free products. Opting for safer alternatives benefits both personal health and the environment.
• Advocating for stricter regulations and participating in public discussions can lead to better oversight of ethylene oxide emissions, ensuring community safety.

Ethylene Oxide Products and Their Uses

Industrial and Chemical Sterilization Applications

Industries rely on ethylene oxide products for a wide range of applications. The most significant use involves serving as a chemical intermediate in manufacturing other substances. Companies use these products to produce:

• Ethylene glycol, which dominates the market and supports the automotive, packaging, and pharmaceutical sectors.
• Glycol ethers, acrylonitrile, ethoxylates, and polyether polyols.

Ethylene glycol alone accounts for about 70% of the total ethylene oxide market in 2024. Global production of ethylene oxide is expected to reach nearly 45,890 thousand tonnes by 2035. In addition to these large-scale uses, industries employ ethylene oxide products as a chemical sterilizer. Hospitals and medical device manufacturers use this chemical sterilizer to disinfect equipment that cannot withstand high temperatures. Some agricultural operations also use ethylene oxide products as pesticides, though in smaller quantities.

Note: The use of ethylene oxide products as a chemical sterilizer helps prevent infection but also raises concerns about environmental emissions.

Common Consumer Products

Ethylene oxide products appear in many everyday items. Manufacturers add them to personal care products, such as shampoos and lotions. Many household cleaning products, especially those labeled as ethoxylated, contain these chemicals. Most households likely have at least one product that includes ethylene oxide derivatives.

• Personal care items: shampoos, conditioners, lotions
• Cleaning agents: dish soaps, laundry detergents, surface cleaners

Consumers may not realize how common ethylene oxide products are in daily life. Regular use of these items can contribute to low-level exposure, which highlights the importance of understanding their environmental impact.

Environmental Exposure Pathways

Air Emissions and Pollution

Ethylene oxide enters the environment mainly through air emissions from industrial facilities. These emissions can affect air quality in surrounding communities. The following table summarizes the main environmental exposure pathways and their associated risk levels:

Air quality suffers most near commercial sterilization facilities. The EPA has identified 23 facilities in the United States that pose unacceptable cancer risks due to ethylene oxide emissions. About 25% of commercial sterilizers regulated by the EPA expose nearby residents to these risks. These emissions increase cancer risk, especially for people living close to these sites. Vulnerable populations, such as people of color and low-income residents, often experience greater health impacts. Regulatory gaps in EPA oversight leave some communities exposed to ongoing environmental hazards. The agency continues to develop stricter rules to address these issues.

Note: Air emissions from ethylene oxide facilities remain the greatest concern for both human health and the environment.

Water and Soil Contamination

Ethylene oxide can also enter water and soil during production or use, but this pathway poses less risk than air emissions. The chemical does not persist long in soil or water because it volatilizes quickly. The table below outlines key facts about environmental contamination in water and soil:

• Ethylene oxide may be released into air and water during industrial activities.
• The primary environmental entry point remains the air.
• Water and soil exposure is not expected to be significant due to rapid breakdown.
• The chemical does not accumulate in sediment or soil.

Communities should focus on monitoring air quality near facilities that use or produce ethylene oxide. Water and soil contamination require less attention, but ongoing research is needed to confirm these findings.

Health and Environmental Risks of Ethylene Oxide Exposure

Human Health Effects

Ethylene oxide exposure presents a major concern for public health. Scientists have identified both acute and chronic health risks linked to this chemical. Acute exposure can cause immediate symptoms, while long-term contact increases the risk of serious diseases. The following table summarizes the main health effects:

Researchers classify ethylene oxide as a human carcinogen. The EPA, the National Toxicology Program, and the International Agency for Research on Cancer all agree on this classification. Studies show that breathing ethylene oxide can lead to a higher cancer risk, especially for breast cancer and cancers of the lymphatic system. Occupational studies reveal that workers exposed to high levels face greater health risks, including neurological problems and respiratory issues.

Over 1 million people have experienced significant ethylene oxide exposure for years, especially in areas with high emissions. This widespread exposure raises public concern about the long-term health impacts.

Recent assessments by the EPA focus on inhalation as the main route of ethylene oxide exposure. These assessments highlight the increased cancer risk for people living or working near industrial facilities. Some agencies, such as the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), argue that risk models should consider natural background levels of ethylene oxide in the human body. However, most health experts agree that environmental exposure remains a key driver of health risks.

Key health risks include:

• Increased cancer risk, especially for breast cancer and lymphoid cancers.
• Neurological symptoms such as headaches and dizziness.
• Respiratory problems like coughing and wheezing.
• Chronic irritation of the eyes, skin, and respiratory system.

Impact on Wildlife and Ecosystems

Ethylene oxide also poses environmental risks beyond human health. Wildlife and ecosystems near contaminated sites can suffer both immediate and long-term impacts. The following table outlines the effects on different parts of the environment:

Animals exposed to ethylene oxide may die or experience reduced fertility. Birds and fish are especially vulnerable to acute toxicity. Over time, wildlife populations may decline due to shortened lifespans and reproductive issues. Plants exposed to high concentrations may die or show stunted growth.

Aquatic life faces moderate toxicity from ethylene oxide contamination. Fish and other organisms in contaminated water may experience both immediate and chronic health risks. These impacts can disrupt the balance of local ecosystems and reduce biodiversity.

Environmental contamination from ethylene oxide can harm entire ecosystems, not just individual species. The loss of wildlife and plant life affects food webs and ecosystem services.

Environmental risk assessments sometimes differ in their conclusions. For example, the TCEQ suggests that some models may overestimate cancer risk by not accounting for natural ethylene oxide production in the body. However, most environmental scientists agree that industrial emissions remain a significant source of harm to both humans and the environment.

Communities near industrial facilities should remain alert to the potential health risks and environmental impacts of ethylene oxide exposure. Ongoing monitoring and stricter regulations can help protect public health and preserve local ecosystems.

Environmental Regulations and Monitoring

Government Standards

Government agencies have established strict environmental regulations to control ethylene oxide emissions and protect public health. In the United States, the National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) require commercial sterilization and fumigation operations to use advanced control technologies. These rules set limits based on maximum achievable control technology for major sources and generally available control technology for smaller sources. The Clean Air Act enforces national standards, aiming to reduce emissions by 90% in commercial sterilizers by March 2024. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets legal exposure limits for workers and requires protective equipment.

Recent advancements in environmental regulations include the finalized Residual Risk and Technology Review (RTR) for commercial sterilization facilities. This rule, effective April 2024, limits emissions to ensure cancer risk does not exceed 1-in-10,000 for nearby communities. New exposure limits will decrease further by 2035. The EPA also requires continuous indoor air monitoring for facilities with high ethylene oxide concentrations.

Industry Compliance

Industries must follow environmental regulations by investing in emission control technologies and adopting best practices. Companies select monitoring methods based on application, such as direct-reading instruments for real-time data or continuous monitoring systems for fixed locations. Regular calibration and maintenance ensure accurate results. Facilities develop sampling strategies and analyze data to identify trends and take corrective actions.

Enforcement remains strict. For example, Cal/OSHA issued 18 citations to Parter Medical Products, Inc. for overexposing employees, resulting in penalties of $838,800. Cosmed Group, Inc. faced a $500,000 civil penalty and invested $1 million in environmental projects after violating emission standards. These actions show that the EPA and other agencies prioritize compliance to protect the environment and the public.

Ongoing monitoring with advanced technologies, such as continuous emissions monitoring systems and optically enhanced spectrometers, supports regulatory compliance and helps reduce risk to communities.

Reducing Exposure and Environmental Impact

Safer Chemical Sterilization Practices

Facilities can lower environmental risks by adopting safer chemical sterilization. Many organizations now use advanced strategies and technologies to reduce emissions and improve safety. The table below highlights some of the most effective approaches:

Many facilities also use emission reduction technologies such as CARULITE 500. This catalyst converts ethylene oxide into carbon dioxide and water vapor at moderate temperatures, supporting environmental goals and improving air quality. Best practices include using emission control systems that destroy over 99.9% of ethylene oxide before it leaves the facility. Regulatory standards from the EPA and OSHA require strict emission limits and regular monitoring to ensure safety.

Some organizations choose alternative sterilization methods to further reduce environmental impact. These include:

• Supercritical CO2, which is non-toxic and safe for the environment.
• Nitrogen dioxide, effective at low temperatures.
• Accelerator-based radiation, such as e-beam and x-ray, which leave no chemical residues.
• Vaporized hydrogen peroxide and vaporized hydrogen peroxide-ozone, which minimize harmful byproducts.

Community and Business Actions

Businesses and communities can take practical steps to minimize exposure and environmental harm. The following actions help meet EPA requirements and protect public health:

1. Upgrade monitoring systems to detect ethylene oxide continuously.
2. Adapt to new exposure limits by providing extra respiratory protection for workers.
3. Update facility infrastructure, such as using separate HVAC systems to prevent cross-contamination.
4. Stay informed about EPA updates and participate in public comment periods.
5. Educate employees about new regulations and safety measures.

Tip: Community members can support environmental safety by staying informed about local facility operations and advocating for stricter monitoring.

By following these steps, both businesses and communities can reduce environmental risks and improve overall safety.

Conclusion

Ethylene oxide products continue to raise concern for public health and the environment. Over recent years, short-term exposures have increased, highlighting the need for proactive management.

Individuals can reduce exposure by following these steps:

1. Substitute ethylene oxide-containing products with safer alternatives.
2. Install non-sparking ventilation and provide safety showers.
3. Measure exposure regularly.
4. Train workers on hazards and hygiene.
5. Use personal protective equipment when needed.

Communities can support public safety by:

• Advocating for stricter EPA regulations.
• Participating in rulemaking processes.
• Accessing reliable information about ethylene oxide.

Staying informed and choosing responsible use and disposal practices will help protect both people and the environment.

FAQ

What Products Commonly Contain Ethylene Oxide?

Many cleaning agents, personal care products, and medical sterilization supplies contain ethylene oxide or its derivatives. Shampoos, lotions, dish soaps, and hospital sterilizers often use these chemicals.

How Can People Reduce Exposure to Ethylene Oxide?

People can choose products labeled as "ethylene oxide-free" or "non-ethoxylated." They can also support local monitoring efforts and advocate for stricter regulations in their communities.

Is Ethylene Oxide Dangerous for The Environment?

Yes. Ethylene oxide can harm air quality, wildlife, and ecosystems. Air emissions from industrial facilities pose the greatest risk. Water and soil contamination usually break down quickly but still require monitoring.

What Are the Main Health Risks of Ethylene Oxide Exposure?

Exposure increases the risk of cancer, especially breast and lymphoid cancers. It can also cause headaches, dizziness, respiratory irritation, and skin problems. Long-term exposure raises the risk of chronic diseases.

Who Monitors Ethylene Oxide Emissions in the United States?

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) monitor and regulate ethylene oxide emissions. They set safety standards and require regular reporting from industries.