3.12 Making Connections

TRICLOSAN—A COMPOUND OF EMERGING CONCERN?

Background: Triclosan (2,4,4’–trichloro-2’-hydroxydiphenyl ether) is a synthetic compound used as a broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent in a variety of consumer products such as toothpaste, antibacterial hand soaps, deodorants, and detergents. It has also been incorporated into plastics such as children’s toys and kitchen utensils, as well as many other industrial and household items. Triclosan was first registered as a pesticide in 1969. According to one estimate, the annual use of triclosan is more than 300 000 kg/year.

Triclosan’s efficacy and value are under question. The Canadian Medical Association does not consider triclosan either necessary or efficacious in personal care products (see www.cma.ca/en/Pages/cma_default.aspx). Physicians are particularly concerned about the development of antibiotic resistance. They also assert that soap and alcohol-based products are just as effective in preventing infection. In addition, there are concerns about the impact of triclosan and its breakdown products on the environment.

Case: You have been assigned the task of critically evaluating the research on triclosan and developing a position paper for the future use and regulation of this chemical.

1. In your report, include the following:
   1. An assessment of the costs versus the benefits of triclosan in various products. Be sure to discuss health, economic, and environmental costs and benefits.
   2. An analysis of any logical fallacies in how stakeholders (both those for and those against the use of triclosan) present their arguments.
2. Based on the information at hand, what is the best course of action for the future of triclosan? Who should be involved in making this decision? Provide justifications for your proposal.
3. Based on the story of BPA and triclosan, what kind of balance should we strike between the economic well-being of chemical companies and the health of humans and the environment? Develop a set of guiding principles for the development and use of chemicals in our society. Discuss the principles you develop and explain the underlying rationale.