The threatened bans on halogen flame retardants have not materialized in North America. These old standbys are holding their own, and new developments and market entries reflect a growing accepted technology. Still, the nonhalogens are making inroads in selected areas, although their cost and performance have not kept pace with those of the more efficient halogen products. In Europe, however, the story is different. The nonhalogen flame retardants are thriving, and the halogen-based additives are under increasing restrictions because of environmental perceptions.