US environmental regulators ban a common industrial chemical for most uses

US environmental regulators are banning a common industrial chemical called perchloroethylene. This means consumers will no longer be able to buy it, and most businesses will have to stop using it.

This chemical has been a staple in dry cleaning and industrial degreasing for decades. Its widespread use meant many people were exposed to a known health risk. The new rule forces industries to find safer alternatives and significantly reduces public exposure to a toxic substance.