Recent findings have raised significant health concerns about the air inside car cabins. A status report submitted to the National Green Tribunal (NGT) by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has unveiled troubling information about flame-retardant chemicals commonly found in cars. These chemicals, potentially linked to serious health issues, might not be properly regulated, leaving a gap in safety measures.

Car Cabin Air: A Hidden Danger?
The CPCB's report, dated September 10, 2024, highlights that some flame-retardant chemicals present in car cabin air are not listed under the Manufacture, Storage, and Import of Hazardous Chemicals (MSIHC) Rules 1989. These rules, issued by the Union Ministry of Environment, are intended to regulate hazardous chemicals. The report suggests that the absence of these chemicals from the MSIHC list represents a regulatory oversight.

The concern was first brought to light in June when the NGT's principal bench, led by Justice Prakash Shrivastava, took suo motu notice of a media report. The report indicated the presence of potentially carcinogenic flame retardants in cars, sparking an investigation by the US National Toxicology Program. In response, the NGT requested a report from CPCB to assess the situation further.

The Study: What Did It Find?
According to the CPCB's findings, a study analyzed the cabin air of 101 vehicles—encompassing electric, gas, and hybrid models from 2015 to 2022. Alarmingly, 99% of these vehicles were found to contain a flame retardant called TCIPP. Additionally, the study identified two other flame retardants, TDCIPP and TCEP, which are known to be carcinogenic and linked to neurological and reproductive issues.

The source of these harmful chemicals is traced back to the seat foam used in vehicles. Manufacturers use these flame retardants to comply with outdated flammability standards that may not offer significant fire safety benefits. This outdated approach results in potential exposure to harmful substances that could have serious health implications.

Regulatory and Safety Gaps
The CPCB's report points out that while the Union Ministry of Environment has set effluent and emission standards for various chemical industries, including those producing plasticizers and aromatics, automobile safety standards fall under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways. These standards are enforced by the Automotive Research Association of India and the National Automotive Testing and R&D Infrastructure Project.

However, CPCB has not conducted specific studies on the flame retardants used in automotive products, leading to a significant gap in understanding the full extent of their impact on health.

Moving Forward: What Can Be Done?
To address these concerns, it is crucial for regulatory bodies to update and enforce comprehensive safety standards that consider the latest research on flame retardants. Increased transparency and testing are necessary to ensure that materials used in car manufacturing do not pose hidden risks to consumers.

In the meantime, consumers can take proactive steps by ensuring their vehicles are well-ventilated and regularly maintained. While awaiting regulatory changes, raising awareness about the potential dangers of these chemicals is a critical step toward protecting public health.