Concerns with the use of Brominated flame retardants – UPSC Prelims PYQ...

Brominated flame retardants are used in many household products like mattresses and upholstery. Why is there some concern about their use?

1. They are highly resistant to degradation in the environment.
2. They are able to accumulate in humans and animals.

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

1. 1 only
2. 2 only
3. Both 1 and 2
4. Neither 1 nor 2

Explanation

Both statements are correct

• Brominated flame retardants (BFRs) are a group of man-made chemicals added to a wide range of products—especially plastics, textiles, and electrical/electronic equipment—to reduce flammability.
• They are highly resistant to degradation, which allows them to persist in the environment for long periods and contribute to pollution. Over time, BFR-treated products, whether in use or as waste, release these chemicals into the surroundings, contaminating air, soil, and water. From there, they enter the food chain, where they tend to accumulate in food of animal origin such as fish, meat, milk, and related products.
• This bioaccumulation raises serious health concerns, as exposure to BFRs has been associated with endocrine disruption, neurological effects, and potential carcinogenicity.

Answer: (c) Both 1 and 2; Difficulty Level: Easy