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2-Methoxyethanol

What is it?

2-Methoxyethanol (2-ME), also known as ethylene glycol monomethyl ether, is a clear liquid with an ether-like odour.

Where is it found and how is it used?

2-Methoxyethanol is not produced in Canada. It is used mostly as a solvent and was found, at one time, in nail polish remover and all-purpose cleaners. In 2002, 2-methoxyethanol was found to be imported for use mainly as an anti-icing agent in jet fuels and in chemical processing, industrial coatings and other markets, including electronics manufacturing, hydraulic fluids and pharmaceutical manufacturing. Current information indicates that 2-methoxyethanol is now being used in only one consumer product--a cleaning solvent for white boards.

What are its effects?

The 2003 assessment report completed under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 (CEPA 1999) found that 2-methoxyethanol is a toxic substance harmful to the health of Canadians but not harmful to the environment. Animal studies reveal a wide range of toxic effects such as malformation in the developing fetus, and adverse effects on male reproduction, blood and the immune and nervous systems.

Emissions of 2-methoxyethanol from industry are not in concentrations high enough to pose risks to the environment.

What are we doing?

2-Methoxyethanol is no longer used in the vast majority of products it which it was once found. In order to prevent future exposure, particularly exposure from consumer products, the Government of Canada has proposed action to prevent future exposure to 2-ME, particularly exposure from consumer products, by prohibiting the manufacture, import and use of 2-ME through the Prohibition of Certain Toxic Substances Regulations, 2005. The federal government proposes to exempt some specified continued use of 2-ME where occupational exposure is controlled. The final order for amendments to the Prohibition of Certain Toxic Substances Regulation, 2005 is expected to be issued in Winter 2007.

Health effects for any substance depend on the amount of exposure, and how that exposure occurs.