THE Environment Agency has announced a strategy to tackle the harm done to the environment by everyday chemicals.

Under the Environment Agency's strategy, Managing Chemicals for a Better Environment, it is investigating chemicals, including flame-retardants, chlorinated paraffins, plastic additives, perfluorinated chemicals, pharmaceuticals, veterinary medicines and pesticides.

Agency officers completed research into 500 of the most commonly used pharmaceuticals in England and Wales, including 12 thought to pose the greatest potential environmental threat such as painkillers, antibiotics and anti-cancer drugs.

Ten were found in sewage treatment work effluent and eight were detected in rivers.

Now officials are calling for an industry-led research programme to be commissioned to provide reassurance that the levels found are unlikely to cause harm to the environment.

The Environment Agency's strategy also includes:

* Systematic screening of chemicals to prioritise those needing further investigation;

* An action plan on high-risk chemicals;

* Investigation of biological effects and green chemistry.

The report is available by ringing 0845 933 3111.

Published: 04/11/2003