EPA Issues Interim Decision to Discontinue Use of Irgarol
WASHINGTON — The U.S Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released an interim decision for irgarol, which finalizes the cancelation of its use as an active ingredient in antifoulant paint. After completing an ecological risk assessment, EPA determined that irgarol, which is used in antifoulant paint and as a materials preservative in algicidal paints, is toxic to both freshwater and marine plants, including causing the bleaching of coral.
The interim decision also requires irgarol powders — which are used to preserve sealants, vinyl roofing, cements, and other building materials — to be sold in packaging that reduces users' exposure.