Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE)

Definition

PBDEs are a group of chemicals that were commonly used as flame retardants in various consumer products, such as electronics and furniture. They are persistent organic pollutants that can accumulate in the environment and have been linked to adverse health effects.

Analogy

Imagine PBDEs as invisible firefighters that work tirelessly to prevent fires in your electronic devices and furniture. However, these firefighters don't retire easily and end up sticking around for a long time, potentially causing harm if they accumulate too much.

Related terms

Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs): These are toxic chemicals that persist in the environment for long periods of time, bioaccumulate in organisms, and can travel long distances through air or water.

Flame Retardants: Chemical substances added to materials to slow down or prevent the spread of fire.

Bioaccumulation: The process by which substances build up in living organisms over time, often due to their inability to be metabolized or excreted.