Toxics Use Reduction Science Advisory Board has performed this project to categorize the 258 chemicals which have ever been reported under the Massachusetts Toxics Use Reduction Act (TURA). The resulting lists of more hazardous', less hazardous and uncategorized chemicals will be used by the Toxics Use Reduction Program to aid in setting priorities and will serve as guidance for companies making chemical substitution decisions. The lists of more hazardous (Category 1) and less hazardous (Category 2) substances follow. The specific chemicals in the categories may change based on new data becoming available or new chemicals being used above TUR reportable threshold quantities in the Commonwealth.

In 1989 the legislature of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts unanimously passed the Toxics Use Reduction Act (TURA) which created the Massachusetts Toxics Use Reduction Program. A central goal of TURA (M.G.L. Chapter 211) is to cut in half by 1997 the quantity of toxic and hazardous wastes generated by Massachusetts industries - using toxics use reduction (TUR) techniques - while enhancing the capacity of Massachusetts businesses to grow and prosper. The Toxics Use Reduction Act was the product of a long negotiation process between business and environmental interests, resulting in a bill endorsed by both. Approximately 600 Massachusetts firms participate in the TURA program.

Final Board approved minutes for the March 19, 2026 SAB meeting.

TURI provides grants to academic researchers to support efforts to find and develop safer alternatives to harmful chemicals.

Lowell, MA – May 4, 2026 – The Massachusetts Toxics Use Reduction Institute (TURI) at the University of Massachusetts Lowell today announced the release of its latest report, “Enhancing Competitiveness Through Toxics Use Reduction,” which highlights how toxics use reduction strategies drive cost savings, innovation, and sustained business growth for Massachusetts companies.