For years, the Environmental Protection Agency has endorsed the recycling of ground-up tires to cushion the surfaces of children's playgrounds and sports fields — the same material used for the Obama family's new White House playground.
Now, the agency appears to be having second thoughts.
Three articles point out the concerns:
Legal Briefs: EPA Reconsidering Safety of Ground-Up-Tires as Playground Surfaces
Common Dreams.org: Safety of Shredded Tires in Playgrounds Under Question
News Report: Government studies playground safety
The EPA scientists cited gaps in scientific evidence, despite other reviews showing little or no health concern. They urged their superiors to conduct a broad health study to inform parents on kids' safety.
Results from the agency's limited study, which began last year, are expected within weeks.