UPSC Prelims 2014 Question:

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:

Explanation:

• The Brominated flame retardants (BFRs) are mixtures of man-made chemicals that are added to a wide variety of products, including for industrial use, to make them less flammable. They are used commonly in plastics, textiles and electrical/electronic equipment.
  
  
• Their use has increased dramatically over the past few decades. However, concerns are being raised because of their persistence (i.e. they are highly resistant to degradation), bioaccumulation, and potential for toxicity, both in animals and in humans. So, statements 1 and 2 are correct.
  
  

Therefore, option (3) is the correct answer.

Subject: Environment | Pollution