Non-profit Research Foundation to Seek Joint Partners

In response to public concerns about some chlorinated compounds, the Research Foundation for Health and Environmental Effects (RFHEE) has been established by the member companies of the Chlorine Chemistry Council (CCC). The Foundation is a non-profit vehicle for joint research by chlorine producers and consumers. Initial funding for the Foundation will approach $1 million in 1996.

"The Foundation provides a way of having interested parties outside the chemical industry participate in sponsorship of research to address important science policy issues," according to Kip Howlett, CCC director. "The Foundation will support peer-reviewed scientific research into effects of chlorine chemistry on people and the environment. The research findings will be public information, providing an important resource for public policy making."

The members of the Alliance for the Responsible Use of Chlorine Chemistry have been briefed on the new Foundation's structure and mission. "For example, important science data gaps in areas related to worker health and safety would be likely candidates for joint union-management research efforts with ARCC member unions," Howlett said. "The Foundation is dedicated to very important research, and it seeks the full participation of joint sponsors -- ideally, a dollar-for-dollar match on projects," said Mr. Howlett.

"This project is need-driven," concluded Howlett. "We're not embarking with the idea that there is a time limit on the Foundation's work. To the extent that the Foundation is successful in facilitating joint venture research, it will represent an ongoing success."