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Chamber campaigns vs use of detergents with phosphates
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Posted on Apr 06 2000
The Saipan Chamber of Commerce has started its campaign against the use of detergents containing phosphates to save the island’s environment, specifically the Saipan Lagoon.
Chamber president Lynn Knight said the organization will discuss with wholesalers and retailers on the island the importance of phasing out these type of detergents that will harm the environment.
“We do not really need a legislation to tell us not to buy it. If it is bad for our environment, then we should start phasing it out,” she said. The growth of algae on corals is one proof that the lagoon has been affected by this harmful chemical.
Gov. Pedro P. Tenorio has asked the Legislature to enact a legislation that will ban the use of laundry detergents containing phosphate in a move to save the island’s fragile environment.
House Speaker Benigno R. Fitial said the governor may invoke his authority to issue an executive order that will lead to the ban on importation of these detergent products or the legislative branch can pass a measure.
Cheap detergents imported from Asian countries flood the local market as they are very popular among consumers who are in a tight budget. While he did not indicate which products will be vanished from store shelves, Mr. Fitial said the ban is necessary to comply with the federal regulation on the use of detergents with phosphate ingredients.
As residents hope to save money during this economic downturn, Ms. Knight said the quality of the lagoon and the beaches are threatened.
“I would like to encourage all Chamber members to start phasing such products out of their operations and out of your homes. Let’s not order any more of these products for retail.
It may cost a few more cents at the cash register but it will be well worth in the long run,” she added.
