The Environmental Protection Agency has banned two industrial solvents commonly used in everyday products. 

These chemicals, trichloroethylene (TCE) and perchloroethylene (Perc), have been linked to severe health risks, including cancer and immune system damage.  

The EPA outlawed all consumer uses of perc, a solvent widely used in dry-cleaning processes and automotive-care products. 

Though less toxic than TCE, perc has been linked to cancers such as brain, testicular, and liver cancer, along with damage to the liver, kidneys, and immune system.  

Trichloroethylene, or TCE, has been widely used in industrial degreasing processes and as an ingredient in adhesives and paint removers. 

It is known to contaminate air and groundwater, with studies showing long-term exposure can lead to liver cancer, kidney cancer, and neurological disorders. 

Additionally, TCE exposure has been linked to congenital heart defects in children whose mothers were exposed during pregnancy.  

These new measures are expected to reduce risks to public health and alleviate decades-long concerns in communities exposed to these hazardous chemicals.

Environmental and public health advocates like Linda Robles have applauded the decision as a vital move to prioritise health over industry convenience.

Ms Robles lost her daughter, Tianna, in 2007 to a rare cancer and kidney failure. 

She believed the illness was caused by exposure to TCE and other harmful chemicals released from Tucson International Airport and nearby military facilities.  

“For decades, they’ve been promising to ban TCE, so seeing it finally happen is a significant step. I’ll never get my daughter back,” she said.