environmentalworkinggroupewg--2020-12-15--Protecting Your Skin From Winter Weather

Winter is here , and that means colder temperatures and drier air .
In the grips of a global pandemic , more of us are spending time outdoors .
But being outside in the cold can bring cracked lips and dry skin and hair .
Heated interiors only exacerbate these problems , so we turn to moisturizers , lotions and lip balms to counteract the effects .
But many of these products contain harmful ingredients that may lead to problems more serious than chapped lips .
Before you stock up on winter skin care products , check out EWG ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the cold weather while minimizing your exposure to potentially harmful chemicals .
Lotion is the cold-weather essential for keeping exposed skin from getting too dry .
Choose a thick and creamy option , and if you prefer a product with fragrance , make sure those ingredients are disclosed .
Your face can be extra sensitive to the cold air , especially since it ’ s hard to cover up .
You want to protect your face but also be cautious about what you ’ re putting on it .
Check out our scores @ @ @ @ @ @ @ database , or on EWG VERIFIED™ .
If you ’ ll be outdoors , make sure the one you choose has adequate SPF .
Skin Deep is EWG ’ s publicly accessible cosmetics database that scores cosmetics and personal care products based on the hazards associated with their ingredients .
EWG VERIFIED goes a step further , certifying products that meet our strictest standards for health and transparency .
People with particularly dry or sensitive skin may want to try a natural oil , such as coconut .
No matter how careful you @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ingesting a little bit of your lip product when you eat , drink or talk , which means it ’ s especially important to choose a safe one .
The best choices are those that don ’ t contain retinyl palmitate or retinyl acetate .
And it ’ s always a good idea to choose one with sun protection , especially if you ’ re spending time in the snow or near water .
Even your hair can get dry in the winter .
When you ’ re looking for a hair conditioner @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , or DMDM hydantoin , a formaldehyde releaser , as ingredients .
They ’ re preservatives that can cause endocrine disruption and may trigger an allergic response .
You can check the scores of conditioners in the Skin Deep database , or look for an EWG VERIFIED product .
It may be cold outside , but that doesn ’ t mean the sun isn ’ t shining brightly .
The sun ’ s rays can reach you even on cloudy days .
Although the risk of sunburn is lower if the sky is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and water , increasing your exposure to UV rays .
Wear sunscreen on exposed parts of your body , especially your face .
Choose one that has zinc oxide as the active ingredient .
The next best choice is a product with 3 percent avobenzone .
Check out EWG ’ s Guide to Sunscreens to find healthier products for you and your family .
Staying hydrated is very important for your skin and overall health .
It helps to eat nutritious fruits and vegetables .
And even though you may tend to feel @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s still important to drink plenty of water .
With naturally hydrated skin , you ’ ll need to use fewer products less often .
You ’ ll not only limit your family ’ s exposure to the potentially harmful chemicals in commercial skin care products , but also save money .
If you ’ d prefer not to use store-bought products , moisturize your scalp , lips , skin and hair with common household oils instead .
Effective natural ingredients include coconut , avocado , jojoba or almond oils , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ scent , but since not all essential oils are safe , check their score in Skin Deep first , and use them sparingly , because many essential oils can trigger allergic skin reactions .
For hair conditioning , try rinsing with diluted apple cider vinegar and warm water after you shampoo .
Not only will this help your hair retain moisture , it will also add natural shine .
If you create your own products at home , test them on a small patch of skin for potential allergic reactions .
If they @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their shelf life may be shorter than commercial products .
If you notice a change in consistency or scent , discard them .

Winter is here, and that means colder temperatures and drier air. In the grips of a global pandemic, more of us are spending time outdoors. But being outside in the cold can bring cracked lips and dry skin and hair.
Heated interiors only exacerbate these problems, so we turn to moisturizers, lotions and lip balms to counteract the effects. But many of these products contain harmful ingredients that may lead to problems more serious than chapped lips.
Before you stock up on winter skin care products, check out EWG’s tips for protecting your skin from the cold weather while minimizing your exposure to potentially harmful chemicals.
Choose better products
Lotion
Lotion is the cold-weather essential for keeping exposed skin from getting too dry. Choose a thick and creamy option, and if you prefer a product with fragrance, make sure those ingredients are disclosed.
Your face can be extra sensitive to the cold air, especially since it’s hard to cover up. You want to protect your face but also be cautious about what you’re putting on it. Check out our scores for facial moisturizers in our Skin Deep® database, or on EWG VERIFIED™. If you’ll be outdoors, make sure the one you choose has adequate SPF.
Skin Deep is EWG’s publicly accessible cosmetics database that scores cosmetics and personal care products based on the hazards associated with their ingredients. EWG VERIFIED goes a step further, certifying products that meet our strictest standards for health and transparency.
People with particularly dry or sensitive skin may want to try a natural oil, such as coconut.
Lip Balm
No matter how careful you are, you can’t avoid ingesting a little bit of your lip product when you eat, drink or talk, which means it’s especially important to choose a safe one. The best choices are those that don’t contain retinyl palmitate or retinyl acetate. And it’s always a good idea to choose one with sun protection, especially if you’re spending time in the snow or near water.
Conditioner
Even your hair can get dry in the winter. When you’re looking for a hair conditioner, avoid those that list propyl paraben, or DMDM hydantoin, a formaldehyde releaser, as ingredients. They’re preservatives that can cause endocrine disruption and may trigger an allergic response.
You can check the scores of conditioners in the Skin Deep database, or look for an EWG VERIFIED product.
Wear sunscreen
It may be cold outside, but that doesn’t mean the sun isn’t shining brightly. The sun’s rays can reach you even on cloudy days. Although the risk of sunburn is lower if the sky is overcast, ultraviolet rays reflect off snow and water, increasing your exposure to UV rays.
Wear sunscreen on exposed parts of your body, especially your face. Choose one that has zinc oxide as the active ingredient. The next best choice is a product with 3 percent avobenzone. Check out EWG’s Guide to Sunscreens to find healthier products for you and your family.
Stay hydrated
Staying hydrated is very important for your skin and overall health. It helps to eat nutritious fruits and vegetables. And even though you may tend to feel less thirsty in cooler weather, it’s still important to drink plenty of water.
With naturally hydrated skin, you’ll need to use fewer products less often. You’ll not only limit your family’s exposure to the potentially harmful chemicals in commercial skin care products, but also save money.
DIY moisturizers
If you’d prefer not to use store-bought products, moisturize your scalp, lips, skin and hair with common household oils instead. Effective natural ingredients include coconut, avocado, jojoba or almond oils, and shea butter. Add essential oils for scent, but since not all essential oils are safe, check their score in Skin Deep first, and use them sparingly, because many essential oils can trigger allergic skin reactions.
For hair conditioning, try rinsing with diluted apple cider vinegar and warm water after you shampoo. Not only will this help your hair retain moisture, it will also add natural shine.
If you create your own products at home, test them on a small patch of skin for potential allergic reactions. If they’re made of perishable ingredients, their shelf life may be shorter than commercial products. If you notice a change in consistency or scent, discard them.


environmentalworkinggroupewg--2020-12-16--Minnesota Legislator Who Believes ‘Water Cleans Itself’ Defends Potato Giant’s Irrigation Expansion

Minnesota Legislator Who Believes ‘Water Cleans Itself’ Defends Potato Giant’s Irrigation Expansion in Fragile Pineland Sands

From November 2019 to February 2020 , Minnesota environmental regulators met several times behind closed doors to fabricate a rationale for not holding the nation ’ s largest potato grower accountable for decades of harm to the ecologically fragile Pineland Sands area .
The regulators refused to hear community members ’ arguments against allowing more pollution but welcomed the input of a state legislator , Rep. Steve Green ( pictured ) , who believes “ water cleans itself.
” The interagency meetings were held to prepare an environmental review worksheet for a recently permitted irrigation project linked to the agricultural @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Ignoring state open meetings law , the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources , or DNR , closed environmental assessment preparation meetings to local residents and activists .
RDO is the nation ’ s largest potato grower and a major supplier of McDonald ’ s fries , farming 190,000 acres across several states .
Its annual profits are estimated at $ 2.5 billion .
For 50 years , RDO ’ s conversion of native pine forest to chemical- and water-intensive industrial-scale potato cultivation has severely polluted groundwater , streams and drinking water in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Straight River , surrounded by RDO irrigation wells , are now 100 times higher than those in rivers still protected by native forest cover .
Mike Tauber , representative of the Northern Water Alliance , grew up and lives in the Pineland Sands region .
He has characterized RDO ’ s potato cultivation practices as one “ giant chemical experiment.
” Tauber has twice petitioned the DNR for a full environmental review of RDO ’ s operations in the Pineland Sands .
He asked to present data at the DNR ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ departments of health , pollution control and agriculture , to reaffirm the clear need to review the total impact of RDO ’ s operations .
Tauber was denied .
But State Rep. Steve Green – a Republican who sits on two of the legislature ’ s environment and natural resources committees – was allowed to attend one of the DNR ’ s closed-door meetings , where he presented an irresponsible and unscientific case against the state ’ s nitrate standards .
Green has served in the Minnesota state legislature since 2012 .
A @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , he has a reputation for defending industrial agricultural pollution and thwarting even modest efforts to protect clean water .
In 2017 , Green drafted legislation to repeal Minnesota ’ s stream buffer law , which protects waterways from polluted farm runoff .
That same year , at a town hall meeting in Park Rapids , where constituents voiced concern about worsening nitrate contamination , Green responded that “ water cleans itself.
” At the town hall meeting , Green reportedly said his own research shows that the state ’ s water quality @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Minnesota Department of Health data analyzed by EWG .
According to his official webpage , Green holds a diploma in auto body repair from a vocational-technical school .
At the interagency meeting , Green put forth erroneous information about state nitrate standards , inaccurately comparing American and European nitrate limits to assert , wrongly , that the standards were too stringent .
In excluding representatives of Northern Water Alliance and permitting the pandering of nonsense opinions on scientifically grounded nitrate standards , DNR not only violated state open meetings law .
It also @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which requires agencies to rely on sound science in environmental review decision-making .
Why is Green so recklessly defending RDO ’ s devastating impact in the Pineland Sands ?
One possible explanation : EWG ’ s review of his Minnesota campaign finance records reveal that since 2014 he has received $ 2,500 in campaign contributions from RDO-affiliated donors – all of them employees at the company ’ s headquarters , in Fargo , N.D. Did RDO curry favor with Green for a mere $ 2,500 ?
Only he can say .
What ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , yet again , to shift the bill for environmental and public health costs , already exceeding tens of millions of dollars in the Pineland Sands , to Minnesota taxpayers .
Campaign Contributions by RDO-Affiliated Donors to Minnesota State Rep. Steve Green Source : EWG , from Minnesota Campaign Finance and Public Disclosure Board

From November 2019 to February 2020, Minnesota environmental regulators met several times behind closed doors to fabricate a rationale for not holding the nation’s largest potato grower accountable for decades of harm to the ecologically fragile Pineland Sands area. The regulators refused to hear community members’ arguments against allowing more pollution but welcomed the input of a state legislator, Rep. Steve Green (pictured), who believes “water cleans itself.”
The interagency meetings were held to prepare an environmental review worksheet for a recently permitted irrigation project linked to the agricultural conglomerate R.D. Offutt, or RDO. Ignoring state open meetings law, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, or DNR, closed environmental assessment preparation meetings to local residents and activists.
RDO is the nation’s largest potato grower and a major supplier of McDonald’s fries, farming 190,000 acres across several states. Its annual profits are estimated at $2.5 billion. For 50 years, RDO’s conversion of native pine forest to chemical- and water-intensive industrial-scale potato cultivation has severely polluted groundwater, streams and drinking water in the Pineland Sands. Nitrate levels in the Straight River, surrounded by RDO irrigation wells, are now 100 times higher than those in rivers still protected by native forest cover.
Mike Tauber, representative of the Northern Water Alliance, grew up and lives in the Pineland Sands region. He has characterized RDO’s potato cultivation practices as one “giant chemical experiment.”
Tauber has twice petitioned the DNR for a full environmental review of RDO’s operations in the Pineland Sands. He asked to present data at the DNR’s interagency meetings, which included the state departments of health, pollution control and agriculture, to reaffirm the clear need to review the total impact of RDO’s operations.
Tauber was denied. But State Rep. Steve Green – a Republican who sits on two of the legislature’s environment and natural resources committees – was allowed to attend one of the DNR’s closed-door meetings, where he presented an irresponsible and unscientific case against the state’s nitrate standards.
Green has served in the Minnesota state legislature since 2012. A denier of the science behind climate change, he has a reputation for defending industrial agricultural pollution and thwarting even modest efforts to protect clean water.
In 2017, Green drafted legislation to repeal Minnesota’s stream buffer law, which protects waterways from polluted farm runoff. That same year, at a town hall meeting in Park Rapids, where constituents voiced concern about worsening nitrate contamination, Green responded that “water cleans itself.”
At the town hall meeting, Green reportedly said his own research shows that the state’s water quality is “greatly improving,” contradicting Minnesota Department of Health data analyzed by EWG. According to his official webpage, Green holds a diploma in auto body repair from a vocational-technical school.
At the interagency meeting, Green put forth erroneous information about state nitrate standards, inaccurately comparing American and European nitrate limits to assert, wrongly, that the standards were too stringent.
In excluding representatives of Northern Water Alliance and permitting the pandering of nonsense opinions on scientifically grounded nitrate standards, DNR not only violated state open meetings law. It also violated the Minnesota Environmental Policy Act, which requires agencies to rely on sound science in environmental review decision-making.
Why is Green so recklessly defending RDO’s devastating impact in the Pineland Sands?
One possible explanation: EWG’s review of his Minnesota campaign finance records reveal that since 2014 he has received $2,500 in campaign contributions from RDO-affiliated donors – all of them employees at the company’s headquarters, in Fargo, N.D.
Did RDO curry favor with Green for a mere $2,500? Only he can say. What’s clear is that RDO has managed, yet again, to shift the bill for environmental and public health costs, already exceeding tens of millions of dollars in the Pineland Sands, to Minnesota taxpayers.
Campaign Contributions by RDO-Affiliated Donors to Minnesota State Rep. Steve Green
Donor Date Amount Keith McGovern, Fargo, N.D. Employer: RD Offutt Co. 9/16/14 $250 Rondi McGovern, Fargo, N.D. Employer: RD Offutt Co. 9/16/14 $250 F. Scott Neal, Fargo, N.D. Employer: R.D. Offutt Co. 9/16/14 $500 Keith McGovern, Fargo, N.D. Employer: R.D. Offutt Co. 10/20/18 $250 Rondi McGovern, Fargo, N.D. Employer: RD Offutt Co. 10/28/18 $250 F. Scott Neal, Fargo, N.D. Employer: R.D. Offutt Co. 10/28/18 $500 Christi J. Offutt, Fargo, N.D. Employer: RD Offutt Farms 6/18/20 $500
Source: EWG, from Minnesota Campaign Finance and Public Disclosure Board
Photo credit: Minnesota House of Representatives


environmentalworkinggroupewg--2020-12-16--Biden Must Keep Pledge To Designate ‘Forever Chemicals’ as Hazardous Substances

In his campaign ’ s environmental justice plan , President-elect Joe Biden made a historic commitment to tackle contamination from the toxic fluorinated “ forever chemicals ” known as PFAS .
One critical promise in his plan is to designate the two most notorious PFAS chemicals – PFOA , formerly used to make DuPont ’ s Teflon , and PFOS , formerly an ingredient in 3M ’ s Scotchgard – as hazardous substances under the federal Superfund law .
Those chemicals are no longer widely used , but because PFAS chemicals never break down in the environment , pollution from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ chemicals also build up in the body and are linked to an array of health hazards , including kidney and testicular cancer , reproductive harms and reduced effectiveness of vaccines .
Designating PFOA and PFOS as hazardous substances is one of the most important steps Biden could take to address the PFAS crisis .
It would jump-start the cleanup process at many of the thousands of sites contaminated by PFAS chemicals – including military bases and communities downstream from industrial dischargers – and help the Environmental Protection Agency hold polluters accountable .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Environmental Recovery , Compensation , and Liability Act , or CERCLA – is the primary cleanup law for communities contaminated by toxic chemicals .
It addresses the cleanup of two kinds of toxic substances : hazardous substances , and pollutants and contaminants .
Right now , the EPA considers PFAS chemicals to be pollutants and contaminants but has not designated any of the hundreds of the PFAS in use as hazardous substances .
Hazardous substance designation would significantly expand the EPA ’ s ability to aggressively tackle legacy pollution from chemicals like PFOA @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there are reporting requirements for releases of all hazardous substances over a certain threshold .
Once a release is reported , the EPA must investigate and determine whether to clean up the pollution and how .
But when a substance is designated simply a pollutant or contaminant , there is no equivalent reporting requirement .
Instead , the EPA must show the release poses an “ imminent and substantial danger ” to public health before the site can be investigated and cleaned up .
Even when the EPA is able to show imminent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ considerable discretion over whether to pursue cleanup .
Actions the EPA can take to address pollutants and contaminants are much more limited .
For example , the EPA can order polluters to remediate hazardous substances at some very contaminated sites , but not pollutants and contaminants .
The EPA also has no mechanism to make polluters pay for cleanup of contaminants without hazardous substance designation .
The EPA often pays the upfront and sometimes the total costs of Superfund cleanups , from an account funded by congressional appropriations .
But those funds , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have been significantly depleted since 1995 , and today are often insufficient to cover the full costs of remediation .
As a result , the EPA must finance many cleanups by suing the polluters responsible for the pollution and negotiating settlements .
But the EPA can only use this powerful tool to clean up hazardous substances – not for cleanup of pollutants or contaminants .
Likewise , polluters that are sued by the EPA can sue other polluters to share cleanup costs , but those polluter-versus-polluter suits can be brought only when cleanups @ @ @ @ @ @ @ must quickly designate PFOA and PFOS as hazardous substances is to ensure that the military cleans up contaminated sites .
The Superfund law also applies to federal agencies that own or operate contaminated sites , including the Department of Defense .
But again , the section of the law covering remediation of federal sites only addresses contamination from hazardous substances .
EWG has confirmed contamination at 328 U.S. military sites , but it ’ s likely there are many more .
Unless PFAS are designated as hazardous substances , the Pentagon will continue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Force , which for decades used PFAS-based firefighting foams – but hid the risks from service members and nearby communities – has used that distinction to try to minimize its cleanup obligations and escape liability for PFAS pollution at some sites .
In response to a violation notice from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources for failure to meet state cleanup standards for significant PFAS contamination at the former Wurtsmith Air Force Base , the Air Force claimed that “ [ T ] he federal government is immune ... from a state enforcing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ other than CERCLA hazardous substances.
” The Trump administration has failed to designate any PFAS as hazardous substances , despite promises to do so .
In May 2018 , former EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt pledged to designate PFAS as hazardous substances under the Superfund law .
And in September , Sharon Lerner of The Intercept reported that a draft rule designating PFOA and PFOS as hazardous substances had been held up by the White House for more than a year .
DuPont , 3M and other major manufacturers of PFAS have long known @ @ @ @ @ @ @ chemicals but polluted with impunity for decades .
Contaminated communities like Parkersburg , W.V.
, and Decatur , Ala. , suffered the consequences of industry ’ s negligence and have been waiting too long for relief .
President-elect Biden should move swiftly to finalize the pending hazardous substance designation rule and should expand it to include other PFAS .
Biden should also quickly fulfill his other promises to regulate PFAS in drinking water , expand PFAS research and end federal purchases of non-essential uses of PFAS .

In his campaign’s environmental justice plan, President-elect Joe Biden made a historic commitment to tackle contamination from the toxic fluorinated “forever chemicals” known as PFAS. One critical promise in his plan is to designate the two most notorious PFAS chemicals – PFOA, formerly used to make DuPont’s Teflon, and PFOS, formerly an ingredient in 3M’s Scotchgard – as hazardous substances under the federal Superfund law.
Those chemicals are no longer widely used, but because PFAS chemicals never break down in the environment, pollution from PFOA and PFOS remains ubiquitous. PFAS chemicals also build up in the body and are linked to an array of health hazards, including kidney and testicular cancer, reproductive harms and reduced effectiveness of vaccines.
Designating PFOA and PFOS as hazardous substances is one of the most important steps Biden could take to address the PFAS crisis. It would jump-start the cleanup process at many of the thousands of sites contaminated by PFAS chemicals – including military bases and communities downstream from industrial dischargers – and help the Environmental Protection Agency hold polluters accountable.
The Superfund law – formally, the Comprehensive Environmental Recovery, Compensation, and Liability Act, or CERCLA – is the primary cleanup law for communities contaminated by toxic chemicals. It addresses the cleanup of two kinds of toxic substances: hazardous substances, and pollutants and contaminants. Right now, the EPA considers PFAS chemicals to be pollutants and contaminants but has not designated any of the hundreds of the PFAS in use as hazardous substances.
Hazardous substance designation would significantly expand the EPA’s ability to aggressively tackle legacy pollution from chemicals like PFOA and PFOS. That’s because there are reporting requirements for releases of all hazardous substances over a certain threshold. Once a release is reported, the EPA must investigate and determine whether to clean up the pollution and how.
But when a substance is designated simply a pollutant or contaminant, there is no equivalent reporting requirement. Instead, the EPA must show the release poses an “imminent and substantial danger” to public health before the site can be investigated and cleaned up. Even when the EPA is able to show imminent and substantial danger, the agency has considerable discretion over whether to pursue cleanup.
Actions the EPA can take to address pollutants and contaminants are much more limited. For example, the EPA can order polluters to remediate hazardous substances at some very contaminated sites, but not pollutants and contaminants.
The EPA also has no mechanism to make polluters pay for cleanup of contaminants without hazardous substance designation. The EPA often pays the upfront and sometimes the total costs of Superfund cleanups, from an account funded by congressional appropriations. But those funds, originally collected by fines on polluters, have been significantly depleted since 1995, and today are often insufficient to cover the full costs of remediation.
As a result, the EPA must finance many cleanups by suing the polluters responsible for the pollution and negotiating settlements. But the EPA can only use this powerful tool to clean up hazardous substances – not for cleanup of pollutants or contaminants. Likewise, polluters that are sued by the EPA can sue other polluters to share cleanup costs, but those polluter-versus-polluter suits can be brought only when cleanups involve hazardous substances.
Another reason Biden must quickly designate PFOA and PFOS as hazardous substances is to ensure that the military cleans up contaminated sites. The Superfund law also applies to federal agencies that own or operate contaminated sites, including the Department of Defense. But again, the section of the law covering remediation of federal sites only addresses contamination from hazardous substances.
EWG has confirmed contamination at 328 U.S. military sites, but it’s likely there are many more. Unless PFAS are designated as hazardous substances, the Pentagon will continue to delay cleanup efforts.
The Air Force, which for decades used PFAS-based firefighting foams – but hid the risks from service members and nearby communities – has used that distinction to try to minimize its cleanup obligations and escape liability for PFAS pollution at some sites. In response to a violation notice from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources for failure to meet state cleanup standards for significant PFAS contamination at the former Wurtsmith Air Force Base, the Air Force claimed that “[T]he federal government is immune ... from a state enforcing its laws for the release of anything other than CERCLA hazardous substances.”
The Trump administration has failed to designate any PFAS as hazardous substances, despite promises to do so. In May 2018, former EPA Administrator Scott Pruitt pledged to designate PFAS as hazardous substances under the Superfund law. And in September, Sharon Lerner of The Intercept reported that a draft rule designating PFOA and PFOS as hazardous substances had been held up by the White House for more than a year.
DuPont, 3M and other major manufacturers of PFAS have long known about the risks of contamination from PFAS chemicals but polluted with impunity for decades. Contaminated communities like Parkersburg, W.V., and Decatur, Ala., suffered the consequences of industry’s negligence and have been waiting too long for relief.
President-elect Biden should move swiftly to finalize the pending hazardous substance designation rule and should expand it to include other PFAS. Biden should also quickly fulfill his other promises to regulate PFAS in drinking water, expand PFAS research and end federal purchases of non-essential uses of PFAS.


environmentalworkinggroupewg--2020-12-16--Biden’s Choice of Granholm for Energy Secretary Heralds Shift to Clean, Renewable Sources

Biden ’ s Choice of Granholm for Energy Secretary Heralds Shift to Clean , Renewable Sources WASHINGTON – President-elect Joe Biden ’ s pick of former Michigan Gov .
Jennifer Granholm to be energy secretary signals a commitment to the clean energy revolution – a sharp contrast to the Trump administration ’ s failed attempt to prop up dirty fossil fuels .
As governor of Michigan from 2003 to 2011 , Granholm championed strong renewable energy standards for the state and has been a vocal advocate for solar and wind power as the engines of a clean energy economy .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ major employers in Michigan – to ramp up production of electric vehicles in an effort to protect the industry from collapse during the financial crisis in 2008 and 2009 .
“ We applaud President-elect Biden for his choice of Gov .
Granholm to be the next secretary of energy , ” said EWG President Ken Cook .
“ Biden campaigned on a renewed investment by the federal government in clean , carbon-free sources of energy to power homes , buildings and transportation , and now it falls on Granholm to turn those pledges @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will play a central role in advancing the federal government ’ s role in the rapid transition to renewables , which will save lives , create jobs and combat the climate crisis.
” Cook said Granholm will bring a fresh perspective to an agency that under Trump has ignored the booming renewable energy industry in favor of empty promises to “ bring back coal ” and has lowered auto fuel economy standards .
“ The days of dirty fossil fuels and exorbitantly expensive nuclear reactors as the nation ’ s primary energy are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said .
“ Granholm must lead the government in getting on board with the remarkable and rapid shift to renewables that is currently driven by market forces.
” Cook said Granholm must also ensure that U.S. energy policy fosters environmental and social justice , which the Biden-Harris campaign pledged to make top priorities .
“ Communities of color and lower-income communities suffer disproportionately from the dirty air , refinery accidents and pipeline leaks that are the inevitable consequences of producing and burning fossil fuels , ” said Cook .
“ The shift to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that not only makes these communities safer but also provides them with good , stable jobs that don ’ t endanger their health.
” The Environmental Working Group is a nonprofit , non-partisan organization that empowers people to live healthier lives in a healthier environment .
Through research , advocacy and unique education tools , EWG drives consumer choice and civic action .

WASHINGTON – President-elect Joe Biden’s pick of former Michigan Gov. Jennifer Granholm to be energy secretary signals a commitment to the clean energy revolution – a sharp contrast to the Trump administration’s failed attempt to prop up dirty fossil fuels.
As governor of Michigan from 2003 to 2011, Granholm championed strong renewable energy standards for the state and has been a vocal advocate for solar and wind power as the engines of a clean energy economy. As governor, she pushed automakers – major employers in Michigan – to ramp up production of electric vehicles in an effort to protect the industry from collapse during the financial crisis in 2008 and 2009.
“We applaud President-elect Biden for his choice of Gov. Granholm to be the next secretary of energy,” said EWG President Ken Cook. “Biden campaigned on a renewed investment by the federal government in clean, carbon-free sources of energy to power homes, buildings and transportation, and now it falls on Granholm to turn those pledges into policy. If confirmed, she will play a central role in advancing the federal government’s role in the rapid transition to renewables, which will save lives, create jobs and combat the climate crisis.”
Cook said Granholm will bring a fresh perspective to an agency that under Trump has ignored the booming renewable energy industry in favor of empty promises to “bring back coal” and has lowered auto fuel economy standards.
“The days of dirty fossil fuels and exorbitantly expensive nuclear reactors as the nation’s primary energy are in the rearview mirror,” Cook said. “Granholm must lead the government in getting on board with the remarkable and rapid shift to renewables that is currently driven by market forces.”
Cook said Granholm must also ensure that U.S. energy policy fosters environmental and social justice, which the Biden-Harris campaign pledged to make top priorities.
“Communities of color and lower-income communities suffer disproportionately from the dirty air, refinery accidents and pipeline leaks that are the inevitable consequences of producing and burning fossil fuels,” said Cook. “The shift to clean energy must be a just transition that not only makes these communities safer but also provides them with good, stable jobs that don’t endanger their health.”
###
The Environmental Working Group is a nonprofit, non-partisan organization that empowers people to live healthier lives in a healthier environment. Through research, advocacy and unique education tools, EWG drives consumer choice and civic action.


environmentalworkinggroupewg--2020-12-17--Nomination of Michael Regan Shows Biden’s Commitment To Rebuild EPA, Protect Public Health and Advan

Nomination of Michael Regan Shows Biden’s Commitment To Rebuild EPA, Protect Public Health and Advance Environmental Justice

WASHINGTON – President-elect Joe Biden will nominate Michael Regan as administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency , The New York Times reports .
Regan , 44 , currently North Carolina ’ s top environmental official , would be the second Black person to lead the agency charged with protecting public health and the environment , after Lisa Jackson , who headed the EPA during President Obama ’ s second term .
Choosing Regan would signal not only Biden ’ s determination to reverse the disastrous environmental rollbacks of the Trump administration but also a commitment to environmental and social justice @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a priority , said EWG President Ken Cook .
“ There is no other agency that has seen its mission undermined more during the Trump administration than the EPA , ” said Cook .
“ Michael ’ s experience at the state and federal levels , and his deep commitment to public health , are exactly what is required to rebuild the agency , its reputation and its critical mission to ensure clean air and safe drinking water , protect Americans from toxic chemicals and combat the climate crisis.
” EWG board member @ @ @ @ @ @ @ top environmental regulator from 2001 to 2009 , also praised Biden ’ s choice .
“ Michael Regan has done an outstanding job as secretary of the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality , ” said Ross .
“ Under his leadership , an agency that had been demoralized and diminished regained its footing , dealt effectively with major environmental and public health challenges , and has been a leader on environmental justice , climate change and renewable energy .
Secretary Regan has displayed the leadership skill set that is sorely needed now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ am confident that he 'll do an outstanding job there.
” Regan was appointed secretary of the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality by Gov .
Roy Cooper in 2017 .
Before that , he spent more than eight years at the nonprofit Environmental Defense Fund , including as the group ’ s Southeast regional director .
Before joining EDF , he worked at the EPA for nearly 10 years , focused mostly on federal air policy .
As DEQ secretary , Regan was instrumental in developing the state ’ s plan to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ energy plan to make the state carbon neutral by 2050 , the first such plan in the Southeast .
In 2018 , Regan set up DEQ ’ s Environmental Justice and Equity Board to assist the department in its efforts to make sure all communities in the state , regardless of race or income , are afforded the same attention .
Under his leadership , the DEQ won an agreement with Chemours Co. to stop pollution of North Carolina ’ s drinking water with the toxic fluorinated chemicals known as PFAS .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the public health emergency posed by these toxic ‘ forever chemicals ’ than Michael Regan , ” said Cook .
“ As EPA administrator , he will have a chance to fulfill President-elect Biden ’ s pledge to set a national PFAS drinking water standard , to designate PFAS as hazardous substances , and to get PFAS out of everyday products .
He will also have a chance to reduce industrial discharges of PFAS , a challenge he understands very well.
” Cook said the past four years have seen EPA turned into @ @ @ @ @ @ @ anti-public health agenda of the chemical , pesticide and fossil fuel industries , while largely abandoning its mission of protecting the environment , the nation ’ s irreplaceable natural resources and public health and safety .
“ The Trump administration ’ s rollbacks have hurt children , communities of color and lower-income Americans the most , ” said Cook .
“ That must be turned around , and Michael is the right person for the job.
” If confirmed , Regan will replace Andrew Wheeler , a former top coal industry lobbyist and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . )
, a notorious climate change denier .
“ Wheeler has spent his career working for the interests of enemies of public health , ” said Cook .
“ Michael has spent his career working to protect it .
If he is confirmed , it will be a new day at the EPA : Americans can once again trust that the nation ’ s top environmental official will embrace science and put the public good first.
” The Environmental Working Group is a nonprofit , non-partisan organization that empowers people to live @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Through research , advocacy and unique education tools , EWG drives consumer choice and civic action .

WASHINGTON – President-elect Joe Biden will nominate Michael Regan as administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, The New York Times reports. Regan, 44, currently North Carolina’s top environmental official, would be the second Black person to lead the agency charged with protecting public health and the environment, after Lisa Jackson, who headed the EPA during President Obama’s second term.
Choosing Regan would signal not only Biden’s determination to reverse the disastrous environmental rollbacks of the Trump administration but also a commitment to environmental and social justice that the Biden-Harris campaign pledged to make a priority, said EWG President Ken Cook.
“There is no other agency that has seen its mission undermined more during the Trump administration than the EPA,” said Cook. “Michael’s experience at the state and federal levels, and his deep commitment to public health, are exactly what is required to rebuild the agency, its reputation and its critical mission to ensure clean air and safe drinking water, protect Americans from toxic chemicals and combat the climate crisis.”
EWG board member Bill Ross, North Carolina’s top environmental regulator from 2001 to 2009, also praised Biden’s choice.
“Michael Regan has done an outstanding job as secretary of the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality,” said Ross. “Under his leadership, an agency that had been demoralized and diminished regained its footing, dealt effectively with major environmental and public health challenges, and has been a leader on environmental justice, climate change and renewable energy. Secretary Regan has displayed the leadership skill set that is sorely needed now at the US EPA, and I am confident that he'll do an outstanding job there.”
Regan was appointed secretary of the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality by Gov. Roy Cooper in 2017. Before that, he spent more than eight years at the nonprofit Environmental Defense Fund, including as the group’s Southeast regional director. Before joining EDF, he worked at the EPA for nearly 10 years, focused mostly on federal air policy.
As DEQ secretary, Regan was instrumental in developing the state’s plan to address climate change, including its clean energy plan to make the state carbon neutral by 2050, the first such plan in the Southeast. In 2018, Regan set up DEQ’s Environmental Justice and Equity Board to assist the department in its efforts to make sure all communities in the state, regardless of race or income, are afforded the same attention.
Under his leadership, the DEQ won an agreement with Chemours Co. to stop pollution of North Carolina’s drinking water with the toxic fluorinated chemicals known as PFAS.
“Few people know more about PFAS and the public health emergency posed by these toxic ‘forever chemicals’ than Michael Regan,” said Cook. “As EPA administrator, he will have a chance to fulfill President-elect Biden’s pledge to set a national PFAS drinking water standard, to designate PFAS as hazardous substances, and to get PFAS out of everyday products. He will also have a chance to reduce industrial discharges of PFAS, a challenge he understands very well.”
Cook said the past four years have seen EPA turned into a rubber stamp for the anti-science, anti-public health agenda of the chemical, pesticide and fossil fuel industries, while largely abandoning its mission of protecting the environment, the nation’s irreplaceable natural resources and public health and safety.
“The Trump administration’s rollbacks have hurt children, communities of color and lower-income Americans the most,” said Cook. “That must be turned around, and Michael is the right person for the job.”
If confirmed, Regan will replace Andrew Wheeler, a former top coal industry lobbyist and right-hand-man to Sen. James Inhofe (R-Oka.), a notorious climate change denier.
“Wheeler has spent his career working for the interests of enemies of public health,” said Cook. “Michael has spent his career working to protect it. If he is confirmed, it will be a new day at the EPA: Americans can once again trust that the nation’s top environmental official will embrace science and put the public good first.”
###
The Environmental Working Group is a nonprofit, non-partisan organization that empowers people to live healthier lives in a healthier environment. Through research, advocacy and unique education tools, EWG drives consumer choice and civic action.


environmentalworkinggroupewg--2020-12-18--Scientists Say New EPA Guidance Would Perpetuate PFAS Contamination

WASHINGTON – An eleventh-hour proposal by the Environmental Protection Agency would approve incineration and other disposal methods for some of the fluorinated chemicals known as PFAS that would neither destroy nor contain the toxic “ forever chemicals.
” Current methods of managing PFAS waste don ’ t work – and in fact , perpetuate the cycle of contamination .
Here is a statement from Olga Naidenko , Ph.D. , the Environmental Working Group ’ s vice president for science investigations : The current practices of disposal are cycling PFAS pollution in the environment , leading to long-term contamination and exposure @ @ @ @ @ @ @ include ending non-essential uses and PFAS discharges into the environment outright .
The EPA recognizes that many large data gaps exist regarding the full suite of disposal and destruction methods it outlines , including thermal destruction .
Many of these same scientific uncertainties and concerns have been raised by communities on the frontlines of PFAS pollution for years .
The EPA needs to demonstrate that its recommended disposal methods for PFAS can be done safely and effectively , and stop the environmental injustice of PFAS contamination in communities near the disposal sites .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ of that mark .
In July , the peer-reviewed journal Chemosphere published a study by EWG scientists that concludes that burning , discarding and flushing waste containing the toxic fluorinated chemicals known as PFAS all contribute to environmental contamination .
The three standard practices for waste management outlined in the review – landfilling , wastewater treatment and incineration – do not effectively contain or destroy PFAS .
The paper concludes with six measures for addressing the PFAS problem : • Limiting the use of PFAS to essential applications in order to reduce industrial @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fence-line communities through strong public health policies .
• Capturing all liquid wastes from landfills and keeping them on site .
• Monitoring PFAS contamination at and near disposal sites .
The Environmental Working Group is a nonprofit , non-partisan organization that empowers people to live healthier lives in a healthier environment .
Through research , advocacy and unique education tools , EWG drives consumer choice and civic action .

WASHINGTON – An eleventh-hour proposal by the Environmental Protection Agency would approve incineration and other disposal methods for some of the fluorinated chemicals known as PFAS that would neither destroy nor contain the toxic “forever chemicals.”
Current methods of managing PFAS waste don’t work – and in fact, perpetuate the cycle of contamination.
Here is a statement from Olga Naidenko, Ph.D., the Environmental Working Group’s vice president for science investigations:
The current practices of disposal are cycling PFAS pollution in the environment, leading to long-term contamination and exposure. Solving the PFAS disposal problem must include ending non-essential uses and PFAS discharges into the environment outright. The EPA recognizes that many large data gaps exist regarding the full suite of disposal and destruction methods it outlines, including thermal destruction. Many of these same scientific uncertainties and concerns have been raised by communities on the frontlines of PFAS pollution for years. The EPA needs to demonstrate that its recommended disposal methods for PFAS can be done safely and effectively, and stop the environmental injustice of PFAS contamination in communities near the disposal sites. Today’s guidance falls well short of that mark.
In July, the peer-reviewed journal Chemosphere published a study by EWG scientists that concludes that burning, discarding and flushing waste containing the toxic fluorinated chemicals known as PFAS all contribute to environmental contamination. The three standard practices for waste management outlined in the review – landfilling, wastewater treatment and incineration – do not effectively contain or destroy PFAS.
The paper concludes with six measures for addressing the PFAS problem:
Limiting the use of PFAS to essential applications in order to reduce industrial discharges.
Protecting the health of fence-line communities through strong public health policies.
Capturing all liquid wastes from landfills and keeping them on site.
Monitoring PFAS contamination at and near disposal sites.
Researching PFAS incineration to address current data gaps.
Researching advanced remediation technologies to generate new waste management solutions.
###
The Environmental Working Group is a nonprofit, non-partisan organization that empowers people to live healthier lives in a healthier environment. Through research, advocacy and unique education tools, EWG drives consumer choice and civic action.


environmentalworkinggroupewg--2020-12-18--EWG News Roundup (12/18): Biden Announces Top Environmental and Energy Nominees, Winter Healthy Skin

EWG News Roundup (12/18): Biden Announces Top Environmental and Energy Nominees, Winter Healthy Skin Tips and More

On Thursday , the New York Times reported that President-elect Biden will nominate Michael Regan , secretary of the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality , as administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency .
“ There is no other agency that has seen its mission undermined more during the Trump administration than the EPA , ” said EWG President Ken Cook .
“ Michael ’ s experience at the state and federal levels , and his deep commitment to public health , are exactly what is required to rebuild the agency , its reputation and its critical mission to ensure @ @ @ @ @ @ @ protect Americans from toxic chemicals and combat the climate crisis.
” One huge opportunity , and challenge , facing the incoming Biden administration is to designate the two most notorious PFAS chemicals – PFOA , formerly used to make DuPont ’ s Teflon , and PFOS , once the key ingredient in 3M ’ s Scotchgard – as hazardous substances under the EPA ’ s federal Superfund law .
Earlier in the week , Biden announced he would be nominating former Michigan Gov .
Jennifer Granholm to lead the Department of Energy .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ choice of Gov .
Granholm to be the next secretary of energy , ” said Ken Cook .
“ Biden campaigned on a renewed investment by the federal government in clean , carbon-free sources of energy to power homes , buildings and transportation , and now it falls on Granholm to turn those pledges into policy .
If confirmed , she will play a central role in advancing the federal government ’ s role in the rapid transition to renewables , which will save lives , create jobs and combat the climate crisis.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ to hear arguments from citizens to hold potato giant R.G .
Offutt accountable for decades of harm and pollution they ’ ve waged on the environmentally sensitive Pineland Sands land .
Despite not hearing from members of the community , the regulators welcomed arguments from a fringe Minnesota lawmaker who believes “ water cleans itself.
” And finally , EWG has provided some helpful tips on keeping your skin healthy during this chilly winter .
Here ’ s some news you can use going into the weekend .
UPI : Experts : Prioritize @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to PFAS chemicals People with higher levels of toxic , manmade chemicals in their bloodstream should be given priority for a COVID-19 vaccine , scientists who represent the Environmental Working Group said Thursday .
The Washington Post : The Energy 202 : The campaign heats up for Biden to pick a Native American for his Cabinet The Environmental Working Group , an advocacy organization , publicized a Nov. 6 letter in which CDC Director Robert Redfield said the agency was studying the association between PFAS levels and antibody response to the virus .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ people now to not have takeout food , '' Burnbaum said during a Zoom press conference Thursday with the nonprofit Environmental Working Group .
`` We do know that people who eat more fast food have higher levels of PFAS in their bodies . ''
Birnbaum and Jamie DeWitt , a pharmacology and toxicology professor at East Carolina University ’ s Brody School of Medicine , spoke Thursday on a call with reporters hosted by the Environmental Working Group ( EWG ) , which advocates for stronger PFAS regulations .
The scientists spoke @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Working Group , an environmental nonprofit that researches drinking water pollution and toxic chemicals .
NC Policy Watch : COVID-19 vaccine could be less effective in people with high PFAS levels in blood The scientists on the press call , hosted by the Environmental Working Group , emphasized people should still get the vaccine , currently given in two doses .
After those doses , people can be tested to determine their level of antibodies ; if those levels are low , a third booster could be necessary , Birnbaum said .
While @ @ @ @ @ @ @ immune response for other vaccines , little is known about how the chemicals affect COVID-19 vaccines , and that justifies more study , said Tasha Stoiber , senior scientist at Environmental Working Group , a national nonprofit that advocates for national PFAS regulation .
Military Times : Toxic chemical exposure can increase risk for COVID-19 complications — and adverse reactions to vaccine Toxic “ forever chemicals ” found in the drinking water on many military bases are known to cause immune system issues and , according to the Environmental Working Group , could @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their dependents when it comes to both the risks of contracting the novel coronavirus and getting the vaccine to prevent it .
Speakers on a Zoom conference put on by the Environmental Working Group stopped short of saying definitively that PFAS exposure increases the risk or susceptibility to COVID .
But there was some evidence , with animal experiments as well as some early observations , suggesting that could be the case .
WSHU ( Fairfield , Conn. ) : Advocates to CDC : Study Link Between PFAS and Covid-19 Severity Advocates at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ want more studies that explore how PFAS exposure may affect COVID-19 severity and vaccine efficacy .
Toxicoligists say they are concerned about communities with high traces of so-called forever chemicals in drinking water , because residents may get sicker with Coronavirus and may respond less to the COVID-19 vaccine .
Birnbaum says PFAS chemicals cause a number of adverse health effects , including on the thyroid and pancreas .
They can be toxic to the liver and the kidneys , are linked to kidney and testicular cancer and impact the immune system , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is senior scientist with the Environmental Working Group .
“ The days of dirty fossil fuels and exorbitantly expensive nuclear reactors as the nation ’ s primary energy are in the rearview mirror , ” said Ken Cook , president of the Environmental Working Group , a Washington-based advocacy group .
The selection of Michael Regan , now secretary of the N.C. Department of Environmental Quality , “ shows Biden ’ s commitment to rebuild EPA , protect public health and advance environmental justice , ” the national Environmental Working Group said in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ N.C. ) : Here 's what a Biden administration could mean for the fight against GenX and other PFAS Scott Faber , senior vice president for government affairs at the Environmental Working Group , said he ’ s optimistic about how the Biden administration will deal with the chemicals .
The group is a nonprofit organization based in Washington .
New Hampshire Union Leader : Letter : Lawmakers must take action on PFAS to protect NH To address the PFAS crisis , I urge Reps. Chris Pappas and Annie Kuster , along with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to work aggressively with advocacy groups like the Environmental Working Group ( EWG ) and the Biden administration to stringently regulate the amount of PFAS discharged into the environment , end non-essential uses of PFAS , limit new PFAS compounds , and clean-up polluted communities .
“ It ’ s too early to know exactly how Vilsack ’ s overweening boosterism for commodity crop agriculture will deflect and undercut meaningful efforts to confront agriculture ’ s contribution to global warming , ” Ken Cook , president of the Environmental Working Group , told @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this administration has waged war on public health by kowtowing to polluters '' , said EWG President Ken Cook .
U.S. PIRG : Gift Guide : How to avoid toxics in beauty products As a result , we ’ ve seen evidence of asbestos contaminating talc products that have made it into stores .
In 2018 , our lab testing found asbestos in Claire ’ s makeup , a brand marketed to children , prompting the FDA to confirm our results .
This year , our partners at the EWG found asbestos in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : talc isn ’ t worth the risk of asbestos contamination .
Health Thoroughfare : Is There Asbestos in Food Items at the Supermarket ?
Find Out Here… The Environmental Working Group have actually estimated that around 1,200 people a year die from gastrointestinal cancer due to asbestos exposure .
The Kansas City Star ( Mo . )
: While Missouri farmers fight plan for 10,000 hogs as neighbors , state sides with big ag Just to the North , the number of CAFOs in Iowa has increased fivefold in the last three @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Group .
NBC LX : Makeup Companies Do n't Have to Prove Their Products Are Safe — California Wants to Change That Susan Little , EWG senior advocate for California Government Affairs , was interviewed about the new California Toxic-Free Cosmetics Act for a new NBC platform called Lx , which targets a younger demographic and streams on its new Peacock service/apps .
Natural News : Chemical reaction between pipe alloy and water disinfectants produce cancer-causing chromium in drinking water In a 2016 report by the Environmental Working Group ( EWG ) , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ D.C. , more than 200 million Americans are estimated to be drinking tap water that contains dangerous levels of chromium-6 .
Bob Vila : The Best Soap Scum Removers for the Bathroom The best soap scum remover may also be certified by the USDA and the EPA .
You can also check out the Environmental Working Group ( EWG ) ’ s Guide to Healthy Cleaning for product toxicity and ratings .
Goop : The Greatest Last-Minute Gifts of All Time GOOP includes EWG at the very bottom under the section “ For @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the GOOP podcast episode “ Why Are There Still Toxic Ingredients in Beauty Products , ” with Nneka Leiba , EWG VP of Healthy Living Science .
Try looking them up on EWG or the FTC for guidelines and informed ratings .
It ’ s up to us to look beyond the cheesy leaf illustrations and green sheen .
Town & Country : The Best Organic Makeup Brands For Clean Beauty Obsessives Organically farmed , naturally derived , and minimally processed ingredients have earned Vapour Beauty “ Champion Safety Status ” from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , but their products speak for themselves .
Bustle : The Best Grapeseed Oils For Hair '' My hair is so soft after using this conditioner and shampoo combo .
Flyaways seem to be reduced and the smell is wonderful .
I typically wash my hair every third day and my hair is not greasy using this product .
For the price and being EWG certified , I will be using this for as long as it ’ s available . ''
That amount is substantial : according to the Environmental Working Group @ @ @ @ @ @ @ data , for example , the federal government has provided approximately $ 424.4 billion in current‐dollar subsidies—crop insurance , commodity payments , conservation payments , and disaster payments—to U.S. farms since 1995 ( the 2020 data are incomplete ) … Easy Health Options : How Your Home Hampers Your Ability to Fight off Disease and Infection The Environmental Working Group is an excellent source if you want to learn more about what products you should and shouldn ’ t bring into your home to lessen its toxic load .
Ensia : From Alaska @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Water at Multiple Sites in Every State “ PFAS really seem to interact with the full range of biological functions in our body , ” says David Andrews , a senior scientist with the nonprofit Environmental Working Group ( EWG , a collaborator on this reporting project ) .
“ Even at the levels that the average person has in this country , these chemicals are likely having an impact.
” David Andrews , senior scientist at the Environmental Working Group , which has long campaigned against the chemicals , said the new @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' than the legacy compounds .
The industry has largely traded on those concerns to create today ’ s $ 50 billion organic market : The Environmental Working Group ’ s popular Dirty Dozen shoppers ’ guides emphasize the potential dangers of pesticide residue for consumers ( without mentioning the crops with the highest environmental impact ) , and a 2018 OTA ad campaign shared a long list of chemicals banned in organic .
The non-profit Environmental Working Group ( EWG ) suggests only buying organic for their so-called “ dirty dozen ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tend to harbor larger amounts of chemicals : strawberries , spinach , nectarines , apples , peaches , pears , cherries , grapes , celery , tomatoes , sweet bell peppers and potatoes .
MSN : 50 ways to save money at the grocery store The Environmental Working Group has a list that outlines conventionally farmed fruits and vegetables that you do n't have to buy organic .

On Thursday, the New York Times reported that President-elect Biden will nominate Michael Regan, secretary of the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality, as administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency.
“There is no other agency that has seen its mission undermined more during the Trump administration than the EPA,” said EWG President Ken Cook. “Michael’s experience at the state and federal levels, and his deep commitment to public health, are exactly what is required to rebuild the agency, its reputation and its critical mission to ensure clean air and safe drinking water, protect Americans from toxic chemicals and combat the climate crisis.”
One huge opportunity, and challenge, facing the incoming Biden administration is to designate the two most notorious PFAS chemicals – PFOA, formerly used to make DuPont’s Teflon, and PFOS, once the key ingredient in 3M’s Scotchgard – as hazardous substances under the EPA’s federal Superfund law.
Earlier in the week, Biden announced he would be nominating former Michigan Gov. Jennifer Granholm to lead the Department of Energy.
“We applaud President-elect Biden for his choice of Gov. Granholm to be the next secretary of energy,” said Ken Cook. “Biden campaigned on a renewed investment by the federal government in clean, carbon-free sources of energy to power homes, buildings and transportation, and now it falls on Granholm to turn those pledges into policy. If confirmed, she will play a central role in advancing the federal government’s role in the rapid transition to renewables, which will save lives, create jobs and combat the climate crisis.”
Recently, regulators in Minnesota refused to hear arguments from citizens to hold potato giant R.G. Offutt accountable for decades of harm and pollution they’ve waged on the environmentally sensitive Pineland Sands land. Despite not hearing from members of the community, the regulators welcomed arguments from a fringe Minnesota lawmaker who believes “water cleans itself.”
And finally, EWG has provided some helpful tips on keeping your skin healthy during this chilly winter.
Here’s some news you can use going into the weekend.
PFAS and Vaccine Efficacy
UPI: Experts: Prioritize COVID-19 vaccine for those with high exposure to PFAS chemicals
People with higher levels of toxic, manmade chemicals in their bloodstream should be given priority for a COVID-19 vaccine, scientists who represent the Environmental Working Group said Thursday.
The Washington Post: The Energy 202: The campaign heats up for Biden to pick a Native American for his Cabinet
The Environmental Working Group, an advocacy organization, publicized a Nov. 6 letter in which CDC Director Robert Redfield said the agency was studying the association between PFAS levels and antibody response to the virus.
Florida Today: 'Forever' chemicals can render COVID-19 vaccines less effective
"It's really hard to tell people now to not have takeout food," Burnbaum said during a Zoom press conference Thursday with the nonprofit Environmental Working Group. "We do know that people who eat more fast food have higher levels of PFAS in their bodies."
MLive: PFAS exposure may reduce COVID-19 vaccine potency, experts warn
Birnbaum and Jamie DeWitt, a pharmacology and toxicology professor at East Carolina University’s Brody School of Medicine, spoke Thursday on a call with reporters hosted by the Environmental Working Group (EWG), which advocates for stronger PFAS regulations.
News & Observer (Raleigh, N.C.): Scientists warn ‘forever chemicals’ could limit effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines
The scientists spoke during a press briefing by the Environmental Working Group, an environmental nonprofit that researches drinking water pollution and toxic chemicals.
NC Policy Watch: COVID-19 vaccine could be less effective in people with high PFAS levels in blood
The scientists on the press call, hosted by the Environmental Working Group, emphasized people should still get the vaccine, currently given in two doses. After those doses, people can be tested to determine their level of antibodies; if those levels are low, a third booster could be necessary, Birnbaum said.
NJ Spotlight News: Scientists seek evidence that ‘forever chemicals’ hinder COVID-19 vaccines
While research has shown PFAS to produce decreased immune response for other vaccines, little is known about how the chemicals affect COVID-19 vaccines, and that justifies more study, said Tasha Stoiber, senior scientist at Environmental Working Group, a national nonprofit that advocates for national PFAS regulation.
Military Times: Toxic chemical exposure can increase risk for COVID-19 complications — and adverse reactions to vaccine
Toxic “forever chemicals” found in the drinking water on many military bases are known to cause immune system issues and, according to the Environmental Working Group, could be a concern for service members and their dependents when it comes to both the risks of contracting the novel coronavirus and getting the vaccine to prevent it.
Times Union (Albany, N.Y.): Activists worry that PFAS exposure could aggravate COVID-19
Speakers on a Zoom conference put on by the Environmental Working Group stopped short of saying definitively that PFAS exposure increases the risk or susceptibility to COVID. But there was some evidence, with animal experiments as well as some early observations, suggesting that could be the case.
WSHU (Fairfield, Conn.): Advocates to CDC: Study Link Between PFAS and Covid-19 Severity
Advocates at the Environmental Working Group (EWG) want more studies that explore how PFAS exposure may affect COVID-19 severity and vaccine efficacy. Toxicoligists say they are concerned about communities with high traces of so-called forever chemicals in drinking water, because residents may get sicker with Coronavirus and may respond less to the COVID-19 vaccine.
WAMC (Albany, N.Y.): Scientists Consider PFAS, COVID-19 And Vaccine Efficacy
Birnbaum says PFAS chemicals cause a number of adverse health effects, including on the thyroid and pancreas. They can be toxic to the liver and the kidneys, are linked to kidney and testicular cancer and impact the immune system, among other effects. Dr. Tasha Stoiber is senior scientist with the Environmental Working Group.
Biden’s Cabinet Picks
Associated Press: Biden picks deal-makers, fighters for climate, energy team
“The days of dirty fossil fuels and exorbitantly expensive nuclear reactors as the nation’s primary energy are in the rearview mirror,” said Ken Cook, president of the Environmental Working Group, a Washington-based advocacy group.
North Carolina Health News: Biden chooses N.C. environmental chief to head EPA
The selection of Michael Regan, now secretary of the N.C. Department of Environmental Quality, “shows Biden’s commitment to rebuild EPA, protect public health and advance environmental justice,” the national Environmental Working Group said in a statement.
Biden’s PFAS Policy
The Fayetteville Observer (N.C.): Here's what a Biden administration could mean for the fight against GenX and other PFAS
Scott Faber, senior vice president for government affairs at the Environmental Working Group, said he’s optimistic about how the Biden administration will deal with the chemicals. The group is a nonprofit organization based in Washington.
New Hampshire Union Leader: Letter: Lawmakers must take action on PFAS to protect NH
To address the PFAS crisis, I urge Reps. Chris Pappas and Annie Kuster, along with Sens. Maggie Hassen and Jeanne Shaheen to work aggressively with advocacy groups like the Environmental Working Group (EWG) and the Biden administration to stringently regulate the amount of PFAS discharged into the environment, end non-essential uses of PFAS, limit new PFAS compounds, and clean-up polluted communities.
Biden’s Vilsack Pick for Secretary of Agriculture
Sierra: Tom Vilsack for Agriculture Secretary Worries Environmentalists
“It’s too early to know exactly how Vilsack’s overweening boosterism for commodity crop agriculture will deflect and undercut meaningful efforts to confront agriculture’s contribution to global warming,” Ken Cook, president of the Environmental Working Group, told Sierra.
Trump Administration
Newburgh Gazette (Ill.): American Petroleum Institute backs EPA decision to maintain particulate matter standards
"For four years, this administration has waged war on public health by kowtowing to polluters", said EWG President Ken Cook.
Asbestos
U.S. PIRG: Gift Guide: How to avoid toxics in beauty products
As a result, we’ve seen evidence of asbestos contaminating talc products that have made it into stores. In 2018, our lab testing found asbestos in Claire’s makeup, a brand marketed to children, prompting the FDA to confirm our results. This year, our partners at the EWG found asbestos in more makeup. The evidence is clear: talc isn’t worth the risk of asbestos contamination.
Health Thoroughfare: Is There Asbestos in Food Items at the Supermarket? Find Out Here…
The Environmental Working Group have actually estimated that around 1,200 people a year die from gastrointestinal cancer due to asbestos exposure.
CAFOs
The Kansas City Star (Mo.): While Missouri farmers fight plan for 10,000 hogs as neighbors, state sides with big ag
Just to the North, the number of CAFOs in Iowa has increased fivefold in the last three decades, according to the Environmental Working Group.
California Toxic-Free Cosmetics Act
NBC LX: Makeup Companies Don't Have to Prove Their Products Are Safe — California Wants to Change That
Susan Little, EWG senior advocate for California Government Affairs, was interviewed about the new California Toxic-Free Cosmetics Act for a new NBC platform called Lx, which targets a younger demographic and streams on its new Peacock service/apps.
Chromium-6 in Tap Water
Natural News: Chemical reaction between pipe alloy and water disinfectants produce cancer-causing chromium in drinking water
In a 2016 report by the Environmental Working Group (EWG), a nonprofit research organization based in Washington D.C., more than 200 million Americans are estimated to be drinking tap water that contains dangerous levels of chromium-6.
Cleaning Products
Bob Vila: The Best Soap Scum Removers for the Bathroom
The best soap scum remover may also be certified by the USDA and the EPA. You can also check out the Environmental Working Group (EWG)’s Guide to Healthy Cleaning for product toxicity and ratings.
Skin Deep® Cosmetics Database
Goop: The Greatest Last-Minute Gifts of All Time
GOOP includes EWG at the very bottom under the section “For Others.” The EWG blurb links back to the GOOP podcast episode “Why Are There Still Toxic Ingredients in Beauty Products,” with Nneka Leiba, EWG VP of Healthy Living Science.
Poosh: How to Spot GREENWASHING
Try looking them up on EWG or the FTC for guidelines and informed ratings. It’s up to us to look beyond the cheesy leaf illustrations and green sheen.
Town & Country: The Best Organic Makeup Brands For Clean Beauty Obsessives
Organically farmed, naturally derived, and minimally processed ingredients have earned Vapour Beauty “Champion Safety Status” from the Environmental Working Group (EWG), but their products speak for themselves.
EWG VERIFIED®: Cosmetics
Bustle: The Best Grapeseed Oils For Hair
"My hair is so soft after using this conditioner and shampoo combo. Flyaways seem to be reduced and the smell is wonderful. I typically wash my hair every third day and my hair is not greasy using this product. For the price and being EWG certified, I will be using this for as long as it’s available."
Farm Subsidies
The Dispatch: Examining America’s Farm Subsidy Problem
That amount is substantial: according to the Environmental Working Group’s compilation of Department of Agriculture data, for example, the federal government has provided approximately $424.4 billion in current‐dollar subsidies—crop insurance, commodity payments, conservation payments, and disaster payments—to U.S. farms since 1995 (the 2020 data are incomplete)…
Healthy Living Home Guide
Easy Health Options: How Your Home Hampers Your Ability to Fight off Disease and Infection
The Environmental Working Group is an excellent source if you want to learn more about what products you should and shouldn’t bring into your home to lessen its toxic load.
PFAS Water Pollution
Ensia: From Alaska To Florida, Harmful PFAS Compounds Pollute Water at Multiple Sites in Every State
“PFAS really seem to interact with the full range of biological functions in our body,” says David Andrews, a senior scientist with the nonprofit Environmental Working Group (EWG, a collaborator on this reporting project). “Even at the levels that the average person has in this country, these chemicals are likely having an impact.”
Star Tribune (Minneapolis): Investigation targets discharges of next-generation 'forever chemicals' from 3M's Cottage Grove plant
David Andrews, senior scientist at the Environmental Working Group, which has long campaigned against the chemicals, said the new short-chain PFAS are "slightly less toxic" than the legacy compounds.
Shopper’s Guide to Pesticides in Produce™
Civil Eats: Can Organic Farming Solve the Climate Crisis?
The industry has largely traded on those concerns to create today’s $50 billion organic market: The Environmental Working Group’s popular Dirty Dozen shoppers’ guides emphasize the potential dangers of pesticide residue for consumers (without mentioning the crops with the highest environmental impact), and a 2018 OTA ad campaign shared a long list of chemicals banned in organic.
E Magazine: Which Foods Are Worth Organic Price Premiums?
The non-profit Environmental Working Group (EWG) suggests only buying organic for their so-called “dirty dozen” list of common produce items that do tend to harbor larger amounts of chemicals: strawberries, spinach, nectarines, apples, peaches, pears, cherries, grapes, celery, tomatoes, sweet bell peppers and potatoes.
MSN: 50 ways to save money at the grocery store
The Environmental Working Group has a list that outlines conventionally farmed fruits and vegetables that you don't have to buy organic.


environmentalworkinggroupewg--2020-12-21--EWG Applauds Farm and Food Worker Protection Funds in Covid-19 Relief Package

WASHINGTON – EWG applauds the inclusion of funds for Covid-19 protections for farm and food workers in the pandemic relief package congressional leaders agreed to on Sunday .
The package , which awaits a final vote before being sent to President Trump for his signature or veto , authorizes the Department of Agriculture to pay for protections for farm and food workers .
“ We applaud congressional leaders for protecting the people who keep the rest of us fed , ” said EWG Senior Vice President for Government Affairs Scott Faber .
The Covid-19 pandemic – worsened by the Trump @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the lives of more than 300 food and farm workers and sickened tens of thousands more , turning the nation ’ s food-processing plants and farms into virus hot spots .
Working conditions make food and farm workers especially vulnerable to Covid-19 .
The Covid-19 bill would give the next secretary of agriculture the discretion to spend up to $ 1.5 billion on personal protection equipment and other protections .
“ The incoming administration must act quickly to ensure that workers are protected from Covid-19 , ” Faber said .
EWG also called @ @ @ @ @ @ @ emergency protective standards to require food and farm employers to protect their workers from Covid-19 , to make sure food and farm workers are first in line for vaccines , and to ensure that food and farm workers get compensated for the risks they take to feed us .
As more and more workers become sick during the current Covid-19 surge , food supply chains could quickly unravel , sending food prices spiking and increasing the number of Americans who struggle with hunger .
“ Farm and food workers are working long hours @ @ @ @ @ @ @ feed us , ” Faber said .
“ The Biden administration must make every effort to protect these essential workers and recognize the critical contributions they make to our nation .
Food and farm workers have always taken care of us – now we must take care of them.
” The Environmental Working Group is a nonprofit , non-partisan organization that empowers people to live healthier lives in a healthier environment .
Through research , advocacy and unique education tools , EWG drives consumer choice and civic action .

WASHINGTON – EWG applauds the inclusion of funds for Covid-19 protections for farm and food workers in the pandemic relief package congressional leaders agreed to on Sunday. The package, which awaits a final vote before being sent to President Trump for his signature or veto, authorizes the Department of Agriculture to pay for protections for farm and food workers.
“We applaud congressional leaders for protecting the people who keep the rest of us fed,” said EWG Senior Vice President for Government Affairs Scott Faber.
The Covid-19 pandemic – worsened by the Trump administration’s response – has taken the lives of more than 300 food and farm workers and sickened tens of thousands more, turning the nation’s food-processing plants and farms into virus hot spots.
Working conditions make food and farm workers especially vulnerable to Covid-19. The Covid-19 bill would give the next secretary of agriculture the discretion to spend up to $1.5 billion on personal protection equipment and other protections.
“The incoming administration must act quickly to ensure that workers are protected from Covid-19,” Faber said.
EWG also called on the Biden-Harris administration to immediately issue emergency protective standards to require food and farm employers to protect their workers from Covid-19, to make sure food and farm workers are first in line for vaccines, and to ensure that food and farm workers get compensated for the risks they take to feed us.
As more and more workers become sick during the current Covid-19 surge, food supply chains could quickly unravel, sending food prices spiking and increasing the number of Americans who struggle with hunger.
“Farm and food workers are working long hours, at enormous personal risk, to feed us,” Faber said. “The Biden administration must make every effort to protect these essential workers and recognize the critical contributions they make to our nation. Food and farm workers have always taken care of us – now we must take care of them.”
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The Environmental Working Group is a nonprofit, non-partisan organization that empowers people to live healthier lives in a healthier environment. Through research, advocacy and unique education tools, EWG drives consumer choice and civic action.


environmentalworkinggroupewg--2020-12-22--Spending Bill Provides Nearly $300 Million To Address ‘Forever Chemicals’

WASHINGTON – The FY 2021 omnibus appropriations bill passed by Congress Monday night provides nearly $ 300 million for new investments to address the regulation and cleanup of the toxic “ forever chemicals ” known as PFAS .
Spending for the Department of Defense , Environmental Protection Agency , U.S. Geological Survey and Food and Drug Administration included in the package will expand PFAS cleanup efforts by the Pentagon , provide the EPA with funding for its regulatory and cleanup priorities , direct agencies to expand data collection and reporting efforts , and direct the FDA to review the safety @ @ @ @ @ @ @ We applaud House and Senate appropriators for once again making the PFAS contamination crisis a priority , ” said Colin O ’ Neil , legislative director at EWG .
“ President-elect Biden will have much work ahead of him to address the ballooning PFAS contamination crisis when he takes office .
However , this is but a small down payment on what is truly needed to reduce and remediate PFAS pollution .
We hope the Biden administration ’ s budget request to Congress will reflect the true cost of addressing the PFAS contamination @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the major PFAS-related provisions in the FY 2021 omnibus appropriations bill : • The Defense appropriations bill provides more than $ 142 million in additional funding for the Defense Department to clean up PFAS contamination at active military installations , for research and development funding for PFAS remediation and disposal , and to phase out PFAS-based firefighting foams .
• Overall , funding for the defense environmental restoration accounts , which pays for discretionary cleanup efforts at military sites , increased by $ 94 million to $ 1.5 billion , compared to last @ @ @ @ @ @ @ funding for PFAS within the Defense appropriations bill was slightly lower than the $ 172 million in last year ’ s bill , which included $ 100 million in PFAS funding for the Air Force ’ s environmental restoration account .
• The bill directs the secretary of defense to report to Congress on costs associated with investigating and cleaning up PFAS at military sites , including the estimated costs after FY 2021 .
• The bill provides $ 100 million for the Defense Department to increase the pace of cleanup of PFOA @ @ @ @ @ @ @ PFAS compounds – at closed military installations , an increase of $ 40 million compared to last year ’ s bill .
• The bill provides $ 49 million for the EPA ’ s scientific , regulatory and cleanup work on PFAS , $ 10 million above President Trump ’ s budget request .
• It also provides $ 2.7 million for the U.S. Geological Survey ’ s efforts to monitor waterways for PFAS .
Department of Agriculture and the FDA • The bill contains a provision directing the FDA to review the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
• It also contains a provision requiring the USDA to help dairy producers affected by PFAS contamination .
• The bill includes $ 1 million in grants to help health professionals better understand health impacts of PFAS exposure and best practices for treatment .
President-elect Biden has pledged to make the PFAS pollution crisis a top priority .
He has said he would designate PFOA and PFOS as hazardous substances under the federal Superfund law , which will accelerate the cleanup process at military bases and ensure that polluters pay their fair @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also pledged to end the use of PFAS in many everyday consumer products and to quickly establish a national drinking water standard for PFAS in tap water .
The Environmental Working Group is a nonprofit , non-partisan organization that empowers people to live healthier lives in a healthier environment .
Through research , advocacy and unique education tools , EWG drives consumer choice and civic action .

WASHINGTON – The FY 2021 omnibus appropriations bill passed by Congress Monday night provides nearly $300 million for new investments to address the regulation and cleanup of the toxic “forever chemicals” known as PFAS.
Spending for the Department of Defense, Environmental Protection Agency, U.S. Geological Survey and Food and Drug Administration included in the package will expand PFAS cleanup efforts by the Pentagon, provide the EPA with funding for its regulatory and cleanup priorities, direct agencies to expand data collection and reporting efforts, and direct the FDA to review the safety of PFAS in food packaging.
“We applaud House and Senate appropriators for once again making the PFAS contamination crisis a priority,” said Colin O’Neil, legislative director at EWG. “President-elect Biden will have much work ahead of him to address the ballooning PFAS contamination crisis when he takes office. However, this is but a small down payment on what is truly needed to reduce and remediate PFAS pollution. We hope the Biden administration’s budget request to Congress will reflect the true cost of addressing the PFAS contamination crisis.”
Here is a summary of the major PFAS-related provisions in the FY 2021 omnibus appropriations bill:
Defense
The Defense appropriations bill provides more than $142 million in additional funding for the Defense Department to clean up PFAS contamination at active military installations, for research and development funding for PFAS remediation and disposal, and to phase out PFAS-based firefighting foams.
Overall, funding for the defense environmental restoration accounts, which pays for discretionary cleanup efforts at military sites, increased by $94 million to $1.5 billion, compared to last year. However, the dedicated line-item funding for PFAS within the Defense appropriations bill was slightly lower than the $172 million in last year’s bill, which included $100 million in PFAS funding for the Air Force’s environmental restoration account.
The bill directs the secretary of defense to report to Congress on costs associated with investigating and cleaning up PFAS at military sites, including the estimated costs after FY 2021.
Military Construction and Veterans Affairs
The bill provides $100 million for the Defense Department to increase the pace of cleanup of PFOA and PFOS – the two most notorious PFAS compounds – at closed military installations, an increase of $40 million compared to last year’s bill.
Interior and Environment
The bill provides $49 million for the EPA’s scientific, regulatory and cleanup work on PFAS, $10 million above President Trump’s budget request.
It also provides $2.7 million for the U.S. Geological Survey’s efforts to monitor waterways for PFAS.
Department of Agriculture and the FDA
The bill contains a provision directing the FDA to review the safety of PFAS chemicals in food packaging.
It also contains a provision requiring the USDA to help dairy producers affected by PFAS contamination.
Health and Human Services
The bill includes $1 million in grants to help health professionals better understand health impacts of PFAS exposure and best practices for treatment.
President-elect Biden has pledged to make the PFAS pollution crisis a top priority. He has said he would designate PFOA and PFOS as hazardous substances under the federal Superfund law, which will accelerate the cleanup process at military bases and ensure that polluters pay their fair share of cleanup costs. He has also pledged to end the use of PFAS in many everyday consumer products and to quickly establish a national drinking water standard for PFAS in tap water.
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The Environmental Working Group is a nonprofit, non-partisan organization that empowers people to live healthier lives in a healthier environment. Through research, advocacy and unique education tools, EWG drives consumer choice and civic action.


environmentalworkinggroupewg--2020-12-22--EWG Comments to EPA in Support of Regulatory Revisions to the State 1 and Stage 2 Disinfection Bypro

EWG Comments to EPA in Support of Regulatory Revisions to the State 1 and Stage 2 Disinfection Byproducts Rules EWG @ @ @ @ @ in support of regulatory revisions to the State 1 and Stage 2 Disinfection Byproducts Rules @ @ @ @ @ disinfection byproducts in drinking water .

The snap of a coffee lid, the pop of a chip bag opening, the crinkle of an empty wrapper – all ways that we use plastic before discarding and forgetting about it. But we’re reminded of the pollution...


environmentalworkinggroupewg--2020-12-22--Avoiding the Hidden Dangers in Cosmetics and Fragrance Gift Sets

It ’ s been a long and hard year , and many of us are looking forward to the festivities and traditions of the holiday season .
Although Covid-19 restrictions make it difficult for many to celebrate in person with their loved ones , holiday gift-giving will remain in force .
Cosmetics and perfumes are among the most popular gift choices each year , and this trend is expected to continue , with stores offering deals on a wide assortment of fragrance and cosmetics gift sets. The 2020 holiday retail survey from the consumer research firm Deloitte shows that nearly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and fragrances as gifts , and they are also among the most frequent items that shoppers buy for themselves .
Nearly every major retailer , from high-end department stores to neighborhood specialty shops , displays festive towers of boxed cosmetics and perfumes , or features these products prominently on their websites .
Consumers may assume that these products are free of concerning ingredients , but this is not always the case , so when shopping for any personal care products , read the ingredients label , then choose a brand that discloses the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that include eye shadow palettes continue to be a popular wish list item for teens and preteens .
Adolescence a key time in development , so it ’ s even more important to pay attention to the ingredients used in products you are giving kids and teens .
For instance , toy makeup kits may contain contaminated or potentially hazardous ingredients , like asbestos , lead and chemicals linked to serious health hazards .
EWG recently reported results of laboratory tests that found the notorious carcinogen asbestos in one in seven talc-based cosmetic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ foundation , blush , and face and body powders .
Exposure to asbestos is linked to asbestosis , mesothelioma , and lung and ovarian cancer .
Even exposures as short as a few days can cause mesothelioma , an incurable cancer , many years later .
It ’ s also important to make sure the brand doesn ’ t hide toxic chemicals behind the term “ fragrance.
” The fragrance in perfume , cologne and body spray may be concocted from any number of the fragrance industry ’ s 3,100 stock chemical ingredients @ @ @ @ @ @ @ kept hidden from the consumer .
Makers of popular scents market their signature aromas with terms like “ floral , ” “ exotic ” and “ musky , ” but few disclose that their formulas are actually a complex cocktail of natural essences and synthetic chemicals , like phthalates , which are hormone disrupters linked to reproductive problems .
There is very little regulation of the U.S. personal care products industry .
No other class of products is so widely used , and in such large quantities , with so few safeguards .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ been meaningfully updated since 1938 , and personal care products , including cosmetics , are not required to go through even basic safety tests .
More than 40 other countries have stricter regulations than the U.S. when it comes to key ingredients such as formaldehyde , parabens and the toxic “ forever chemicals ” known as PFAS .
Some nations regulate the use of more than 1,600 chemicals in cosmetics , but the Food and Drug Administration has banned or restricted only nine for safety .
September saw a major victory in cosmetics @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s Toxic-Free Cosmetics Act , the largest step forward in U.S. cosmetics regulation for decades .
California is the first state to ban 24 toxic chemicals in personal care products , including cosmetics and perfumes .
The new law will protect millions of Californians by banning some of the most hazardous chemicals from cosmetics products , and because of the size of the state ’ s market , it will likely influence cosmetics manufactured for the entire nation .
For now , check out EWG ’ s Skin Deep® cosmetics database , which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ products and helps you choose those with the fewest hazardous ingredients .
The EWG Healthy Living app brings these ratings to your fingertips in an easy-to-use format , so you can choose the healthiest gifts on the go this holiday season .
And look for the EWG VERIFIED™ mark on products .
You ’ ll know right away that they have been formulated to the strictest safety standards and transparency .

It’s been a long and hard year, and many of us are looking forward to the festivities and traditions of the holiday season. Although Covid-19 restrictions make it difficult for many to celebrate in person with their loved ones, holiday gift-giving will remain in force.
Cosmetics and perfumes are among the most popular gift choices each year, and this trend is expected to continue, with stores offering deals on a wide assortment of fragrance and cosmetics gift sets.
The 2020 holiday retail survey from the consumer research firm Deloitte shows that nearly a third of shoppers will buy cosmetics and fragrances as gifts, and they are also among the most frequent items that shoppers buy for themselves. Nearly every major retailer, from high-end department stores to neighborhood specialty shops, displays festive towers of boxed cosmetics and perfumes, or features these products prominently on their websites.
Consumers may assume that these products are free of concerning ingredients, but this is not always the case, so when shopping for any personal care products, read the ingredients label, then choose a brand that discloses the chemicals in its formula.
Gift sets that include eye shadow palettes continue to be a popular wish list item for teens and preteens. Adolescence a key time in development, so it’s even more important to pay attention to the ingredients used in products you are giving kids and teens.
For instance, toy makeup kits may contain contaminated or potentially hazardous ingredients, like asbestos, lead and chemicals linked to serious health hazards. EWG recently reported results of laboratory tests that found the notorious carcinogen asbestos in one in seven talc-based cosmetic samples tested – including eye shadow, foundation, blush, and face and body powders. Exposure to asbestos is linked to asbestosis, mesothelioma, and lung and ovarian cancer. Even exposures as short as a few days can cause mesothelioma, an incurable cancer, many years later.
It’s also important to make sure the brand doesn’t hide toxic chemicals behind the term “fragrance.” The fragrance in perfume, cologne and body spray may be concocted from any number of the fragrance industry’s 3,100 stock chemical ingredients, the blend of which is often kept hidden from the consumer. Makers of popular scents market their signature aromas with terms like “floral,” “exotic” and “musky,” but few disclose that their formulas are actually a complex cocktail of natural essences and synthetic chemicals, like phthalates, which are hormone disrupters linked to reproductive problems.
There is very little regulation of the U.S. personal care products industry. No other class of products is so widely used, and in such large quantities, with so few safeguards. Federal legislation on cosmetics safety has not been meaningfully updated since 1938, and personal care products, including cosmetics, are not required to go through even basic safety tests.
More than 40 other countries have stricter regulations than the U.S. when it comes to key ingredients such as formaldehyde, parabens and the toxic “forever chemicals” known as PFAS. Some nations regulate the use of more than 1,600 chemicals in cosmetics, but the Food and Drug Administration has banned or restricted only nine for safety.
September saw a major victory in cosmetics regulation with the passage of California’s Toxic-Free Cosmetics Act, the largest step forward in U.S. cosmetics regulation for decades. California is the first state to ban 24 toxic chemicals in personal care products, including cosmetics and perfumes. The new law will protect millions of Californians by banning some of the most hazardous chemicals from cosmetics products, and because of the size of the state’s market, it will likely influence cosmetics manufactured for the entire nation.
For now, check out EWG’s Skin Deep® cosmetics database, which provides ratings for almost 82,000 personal care products and helps you choose those with the fewest hazardous ingredients. The EWG Healthy Living app brings these ratings to your fingertips in an easy-to-use format, so you can choose the healthiest gifts on the go this holiday season. And look for the EWG VERIFIED™ mark on products. You’ll know right away that they have been formulated to the strictest safety standards and transparency.