An ENDS survey of major retailers has found many who committed to phasing out chemicals on a Friends of the Earth "hit list" six years ago are still using several of them. In 2002, FoE asked 27 leading retailers to back its "risky chemicals pledge." It asked them to identify known or suspected endocrine disruptors, carcinogens or bio accumulative substances in their products, aim to phase them out within five years and report on progress. Argos, Boots, B&Q, the Co-Op, the Early Learning Centre, Focus DIY, Homebase and M&S were among the retailers that signed up, however, a survey by ENDS suggests progress has ground to a halt across the board. While most retailers who responded confirmed some of the chemicals had been eliminated, they still use many others. PVC, bisphenol A, phthalates and parabens appear to be those most widely used.
