Abstract
The use of phosphates has continued in automatic dishwashing detergents (ADD's) despite recognition of the impact of phosphorus on aquatic environments. This project looked at the phosphate concentrations in major label products as well as their potential to impact the environment. Many recent reports have concluded that the impact of a phosphorus ban in automatic dishwashing detergents would not be significant enough to prevent eutrophication.
Further, a ban would not improve lake water quality, as ADD's contribute a relatively small amount to total phosphorus loadings to most major lakes, between 2% and 10%. However, these studies have not looked specifically at the use of ADD's in cottage country, where septic systems are often inadequate to protect water from nutrient enrichment.