EDTA

(ethylene-diamino-tetra-acetate)

A class of synthetic, phosphate-alternative compounds used to reduce calcium and magnesium hardness in water. EDTA is also used to prevent bleaching agents from becoming active before they're immersed in water and as a foaming stabilizer. EDTA does not readily biodegrade and once introduced into the general environment can re-dissolve toxic heavy metals trapped in underwater sediments, allowing them to re-enter and re-circulate in the food chain.

Found in: Conventional laundry detergents.

endocrine disruptors

A condition where the body's endocrine (or hormonal) system is altered by exposure to certain chemicals whose molecular shape matches that of certain hormones. These chemicals are able to fit into receptors on cell surfaces that are meant for hormones, which are the body's messengers. When endocrine disruptors attach to cells they may trigger undesirable behaviors in the cell or prevent legitimate hormones from attaching and delivering their signals.

EPA

The Environmental Protection Agency, the federal agency charged with ensuring a clean, safe, and healthy environment.

Ethyl Cellosolve

This synthetic solvent is both a nasal irritant and a neurotoxin (see Solvents).

Found in: Conventional all-purpose cleaners, window cleaners.

Ethylene Glycol

(also ethylene dihydrate, ethylene alcohol)
This synthetic solvent is highly toxic and is both a nasal irritant and a neurotoxin (see Solvents). Its vapors contribute to the formation of urban ozone pollution. Ethylene glycol is listed in the 1990 Clean Air Act as a hazardous air pollutant and is on the EPA's Community Right-to-Know list.

Found in: Conventional all-purpose cleaners

Ethylene Glycol Monobutylether

(see butyl cellosolve)