Glossary

Decode the eco-speak with our friendly glossary list of green buzzwords and certifications.

Carcinogen: Any substance that is capable of causing cancer. Some examples are carbon monoxide and arsenic. The International Agency for Research on Cancer classifies carcinogens in four subtypes: those definitely carcinogenic to humans, those probably carcinogenic to humans, those possibly carcinogenic to humans, and those not classifiable as to their carcinogenicity to humans.
Cathode Ray Tube (CRT): Television and computer screens made of glass and relying on a scanning "electron gun" to excite phosphors in the screen to create images. These tubes contain hazardous constituents, including lead that can contaminate poorly conducted recycling operations.
Chlorine: A mix of water and sodium hypochlorite used for whitening clothes and disinfecting surfaces. Chlorine bleach can damage eyes, skin and lungs, and if swallowed, can cause death. When combined with any household cleaner containing ammonia, the mix produces potentially lethal vapors called chloramines. The production of chlorine produces carcinogenic Dioxins which can enter the food chain and accumulate in cow’s milk. Chlorine can also poison freshwater fish and insects.
Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs): A chemical compound used in refrigerator and air conditioner coolants that depletes the Earth’s ozone layer. The UN Environment Programme estimates that exposure to the additional UV-B radiation resulting from 10 percent loss of global ozone could lead to 300,000 additional cases of squamous cell cancer and basal cell cancer and 4,500-9,000 additional cases of potentially fatal melanoma worldwide each year. Increased exposure to UV-B rays also poses a significant threat to animal and plant life and consequently many of the earth's food chains.
Chromated Copper Arsenate (CCA): A wood preservative and pesticide found in playground equipment manufactured before 2001, and some outdoor furniture and decking. CCA contains arsenic that can rub off onto hands, leading to the potential for ingestion. See Arsenic for health effects.