AbstractStabilizers containing relatively toxic metals such as cadmium or lead have long been used whenever regulations permit because, on a cost‐performance basis, they have been far superior to available alternatives. Recent and proposed regulatory changes increase the regulatory compliance cost connected with the use of traditional products. Argus Chemical's efforts have approached the problem from several directions, including: 1) minimizing compliance cost by providing products less hazardous in use; for example, solid stabilizers with minimal dusting tendency, and liquid stabilizers able to replace solids; 2) upgrading performance by providing more efficient products; 3) providing products in which relatively toxic ingredients have been replaced by less toxic materials. Applications of these approaches in the specific areas of general‐purpose flexible calendering and extrusion compounds, vinyl plastisols, and phonograph record compounds will be described. The paper will also compare and contrast the regulatory status as it now exists in the U.S.A. with the situation currently prevailing in other world ar