U.S. Initiative to eliminate release of lead into waste stream

Aug. 29, 2008 -- A voluntary program expects to eliminate the release of millions of pounds of lead into the environment and the waste stream.

The National Lead-Free Wheel Weight Initiative, unveiled Aug. 29, aims to phase in the use of lead-free wheel weights by 2011.

The program, created by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, joins tire companies, retailers, auto makers and government agencies in the effort. An estimated 50 million pounds of lead is used each year for wheel weights on cars and light trucks. The weights, however, can fall off when a vehicle hits a pot hole or stops suddenly, the EPA said.

Partners in the program pledged to reduce or eliminate the use of lead in wheel weights. Chrysler LLC, for example, said it has switched to steel and zinc for wheel weights on the company's new vehicles.

(Source: Waste News in August 2008 WasteWatch)

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