Report: Dry Cleaning Industry in Transition

While a few of the country's nearly 40,000 dry cleaners are opting for alternatives to the solvent perchloroethylene, most are not, according to a July 11, 2001 Greenpeace report. "Out of Fashion: Moving Beyond Toxic Cleaners in the Fabric Care Industry" covers the potential toxicity of perc, the viability of other cleaning methods, and the status of state and federal regulations and investigations. Greenpeace: Lisa Finaldi, 919-828-5202.

EPA is evaluating the toxicity of perc, and is scheduled to accept public comment in January 2002. More info on perc and other solvents, including industry and federal agency contacts: TipSheet, May 30, 2001.