If you're keen on a toxics-safe future for the planet, then this is the discussion group for you. Toxics are defined here as naturally occurring or man-made chemicals (elements/compounds/mixtures) that have a toxic effect. A toxic effect is any type of adverse effect, one that causes some malfunctioning or compromise of normal functioning in an organism. Sensitisation in an individual (even when other individuals are not similarly affected) represents a disruption in the immune system, which is there to protect the integrity of the body, & is thus an adverse, toxic reaction (when a chemical is involved). Multiple Chemical Sensitivity is certainly a toxic reaction.
"Toxics" does not here include toxins (naturally occurring poisons such as snake venom, oleander sap etc).
Toxics includes Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) such as pesticides & organo-metals, Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) such as paints, fuels, fragrances, cleaning agents etc), asbestos, other respirable fibres & dusts/particulates, Heavy Metals, mixtures such as cigarette smoke, engine fumes, woodsmoke, etc.
The egroup has been set up by the National Toxics Network (NTN), a peak body for Toxics groups in Australia & the Pacific, to enable useful discussion of the toxics-reduction policies & alternatives to toxics (eg perfume-free public spaces, organic farming) the effects of toxics & regulatory & other controls of toxics in order to prevent or manage exposure to organisms & contamination of environmental media (air, water, soil, dust, sediments, wastes, etc).
All potential members are required to give a reason for wanting to join the egroup, & if your membership is approved, you are requested to write an introductory email to the group email address - toxics@yahoogroups.com - which provides your full name, toxics-relevant organisation (if any), location (placename, state & country) & again, your reason for wanting to join the egroup, plus any initial questions or discussion starters. Thanks!