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Backfiring Detergent Bans

Spokane Residents Reject Eco-Soap Law, Smuggle Fave Brands

— March 30, 2009 — Eco
Some normally law-abiding people in Spokane, WA have become dishwater detergent smugglers. Spokane County launched the nation’s strictest ban on dishwasher detergent made with phosphates last July. The ban is aimed at a reduction in water pollution and will go statewide in July 2010.

Many people complain that eco-friendly products leave their dishes dirty and greasy. Hard water is mineral-rich and resistant to soap. Phosphates help to break the minerals down.

I use an eco-friendly detergent in my Asko dishwasher and have no complaints. Maybe these individuals’ complaints are related to water quality that needs to be addressed by an in-home filtration and treatment system, so the water is soft before it enters the dishwasher.
Trend Themes
1. Dishwasher Detergent Alternatives - Opportunity for companies to develop and market innovative eco-friendly dishwasher detergent alternatives that effectively clean dishes without containing phosphates.
2. Home Water Softening Solutions - Disruptive innovation opportunity for companies to develop and market home filtration and treatment systems that soften hard water and improve the effectiveness of eco-friendly dishwasher detergents.
3. Resistance to Eco-friendly Regulations - Trend of resistance to eco-friendly regulations, specifically related to household cleaning products such as dishwasher detergent, with potential implications for future environmental policies.
Industry Implications
1. Home Cleaning Products - Disruptive innovation opportunity for companies in the home cleaning industry to develop and market eco-friendly dishwasher detergent alternatives and home water softening solutions.
2. Water Filtration Systems - Opportunity for companies in the water filtration industry to further develop and market filtration and treatment systems for dealing with hard water, as an alternative to traditional water softening methods.
3. Environmental Policy - Implications for companies involved in environmental policy-making, as they face resistance from consumers and industry stakeholders toward eco-friendly regulations and initiatives.
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