Copper Legislation

 

In early 2009, California started the initiative to remove copper from brake pads. State Bill 346 was authored by Senator Christine Kehoe. In order to improve and protect the state’s aquatic environment it requires that the use of copper in brake pads sold in California be reduced to no more than 5% by weight by 2021, and to no more than 0.5% by 2032. The bill also creates limits and monitoring requirements for other brake pad materials.

This brought attention to the issue, causing other states to join the cause. In March 2010, Washington became the first state to sign into law the copper-free legislation. In September 2010, California Governor Schwarzenegger signed SB346 into law. Rhode Island and New York have introduced similar bills. 

FDP is the only company currently producing copper-free ceramic brakes in our EcoStop line.

 

To learn more about the effects of copper on the environment, please visit:

Movement to Banish Copper From Brake Pads Gains Momentum
New York Times blog post

Sustainable Conversation
http://www.suscon.org/bpp/faq.php

MSNBC
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/36432714/

To learn more about state-specific regulations, please visit:

California
http://www.sdgln.com/news/2010/09/28/california-s-governor-signs-sen-christine-kehoe-s-bill-remove-copper-vehicle-brake-p

Washington
http://www.stormh2o.com/the-latest/washington-copper-brakes.aspx

Rhode Island
http://www.rilin.state.ri.us/billtext10/housetext10/h7997.pdf