against tire companies over a chemical additive which plaintiffs allege can be deadly to endangered salmon. Bridgestone, Michelin, Pirelli and 10 other tire manufacturers in the United States are facing off in court against the Institute for Fisheries Resources and the Pacific Coast Federation of Fishermen's Associations, who are represented by the environmental group Earthjustice. Plaintiffs argue that usage of the additive 6PPD can devastate coho salmon and other fish populations who live off the coasts of California and Alaska. The suit charges that the use of the additive constitutes an illegal "taking" under the US Endangered Species Act, affecting 24 populations of coho, Chinook salmon and steelhead trout listed as threatened. The 13 tire companies have argued that 6PPD provides an essential safety function by ensuring the integrity of tires when they come into contact with ozone and oxygen. But plaintiffs say the use of 6PPD, when combined with ozone, produces 6PPD-quinone or 6PPD-q, which moves into waterways after storm events, with devastating consequences for fish populations. Scientific studies published by prestigious journals have shown such substances to be damaging to fish populations, even at low doses.

Hearings in the case will continue on Wednesday and Thursday with further testimony from scientists. A ruling is expected at a later time. (Bssnews)