California Adds Bisphenol 5 (BPS) to Proposition 65: What You Need To Know

California Add Bisphenol 5 (BPS) to Proposition 65: What You Need To Know

California has once again taken the lead in protecting public health. In October 2024, the state added Bisphenol S (BPS) to the Proposition 65 list of cancer-causing chemicals, sparking changes for businesses and consumers alike. If your operations involve BPS-containing materials, Ingenium will help you navigate these changes while staying compliant and protecting your bottom line.

As a company committed to “Making Waste History,” INGENIUM is well-positioned to assist businesses in navigating the implications of this regulatory change and offering sustainable waste management solutions.

What’s the Deal with BPS?

BPS is a synthetic chemical often used as a safer alternative to BPA (Bisphenol A) in products like:

  • Plastics
  • Thermal Paper Receipts
  • Epoxy Resins

For years, manufacturers leaned into the BPA-free label, swapping BPA for BPS in response to health concerns. The problem? BPS isn’t the superhero we all hoped for. Studies show it shares similar hormone-disrupting properties and may even increase cancer risks.

What’s Proposition 65, Anyway?

Proposition 65, officially known as the Safe Drinking Water and Toxic Enforcement Act of 1986, is California’s way of keeping tabs on chemicals that could harm your health. If a product contains any of the listed chemicals, businesses must provide clear warnings to consumers.

Translation: If BPS is in a product sold in California, you’ll likely see a warning label.

Why Was BPS Added?

The decision wasn’t random; it was backed by science. California’s Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA) reviewed studies showing prolonged BPS exposure could increase cancer risks. It’s on the list, and businesses are now scrambling to adjust.

What This Means for Businesses

If your company uses BPS, here’s the bottom line:

  • Labeling: You must assess your products and decide if Proposition 65 warnings apply.
  • Alternatives: It might be time to explore safer substitutes to avoid the warning label (and the risk of scaring off eco-conscious consumers).
  • Disposal: Managing BPS-containing waste is now a critical step in compliance.

What INGENIUM Can Do For You

At INGENIUM, we manage complex waste streams and ensure regulatory compliance. Here’s how we can help:

  1. Waste Assessment and Profiling – Our team will evaluate your waste streams to determine if BPS-containing materials fall under Proposition 65 or other hazardous waste regulations. We’ll help you identify potential compliance risks and develop strategies to address them.
  2. Safe and Compliant Disposal – BPS-containing materials may not always qualify as hazardous waste under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) but often require careful handling. INGENIUM offers environmentally sound disposal options through RCRA Subtitle C facilities like incinerators and hazardous waste landfills.
  3. Customized Waste Management Solutions – Whether you need routine pickups or one-time solutions, INGENIUM will design a program tailored to your operations. From transportation to documentation, we manage the entire process, giving you peace of mind.
  4. Training and Compliance Support – INGENIUM provides expert training to help your team navigate Proposition 65 requirements, including proper labeling, handling, and disposal practices.
  5. Sustainability Guidance – We’ll work with you to explore alternatives, aligning your business with California’s push for safer, more sustainable manufacturing practices.

What This Means for Consumers

For consumers, Proposition 65 ensures greater transparency. Labels on products containing BPS empower you to:

  • Reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals.
  • Choose safer alternatives, like products free of both BPA and BPS.
  • Opt for digital receipts over thermal paper.

Moving Toward a Safer Future

California’s decision to list BPS under Proposition 65 is more than just a regulatory update; it’s a call to action. Businesses and consumers can help reduce exposure to harmful chemicals and advance sustainable practices.

INGENIUM is here to help your business meet these challenges and turn them into opportunities. Whether it’s managing your waste streams responsibly, finding safer alternatives, or ensuring compliance, our team is ready to support you every step of the way.

The Bottom Line

Navigating Proposition 65 doesn’t have to be daunting. With INGENIUM as your partner, you’ll have the tools and expertise to stay compliant, protect your reputation, and align with California’s vision for a safer, healthier future.

Why Choose INGENIUM?

With expertise in hazardous waste management, INGENIUM offers a unique combination of:

  • Technical Knowledge: A thorough understanding of Proposition 65 and RCRA regulations.
  • Innovative Solutions: Customizable services that meet both compliance and sustainability goals.
  • Client-centric Approach: A commitment to building partnerships that empower businesses to operate responsibly and efficiently.

CONTACT INGENIUM TODAY to learn how we can help you manage BPS waste effectively and responsibly! Together, we’ll make waste history.

Learn more about Prop 65

-Scott Rendleman, CHMM

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