environmentalworkinggroupewg--2020-10-23--Trump’s Ag Secretary Wants EU To Have Polluted Water, Too

President Donald Trump and his secretary of agriculture have a message for Europeans : We want you to drink polluted water too .
Worried that Europe ’ s efforts to combat farm pollution could be “ contagious , ” Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue has threatened to take Europe to court if it proceeds with a farm to fork strategy that is part of the European Union ’ s version of the Green New Deal .
That ’ s the same Sonny Perdue who is already in hot water for repeatedly violating trade agreements designed to limit farm subsidies , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for President Trump at government events .
The EU ’ s Farm to Fork plan would set higher standards for farm pollution , including new limits on fertilizer and pesticide applications .
Specifically , the plan includes : • Having one-fourth of all farmland in Europe be organic • Reducing the use and risk of pesticides by half • Reducing the use of fertilizers by one-fifth A requirement to meet these standards could be tough for American farmers , who are not subject to U.S. pollution laws .
Perdue has dubbed standards that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ extremely problematic ” and “ protectionist.
” Worst of all , Perdue told reporters , is that a sustainable food system “ has the possibility of being contagious into other areas outside the food and ag sector.
” Without irony , Perdue threatened to challenge the new EU standards before the World Trade Organization , or WTO .
This move would be surprising , to say the least , for three reasons .
• Perdue ’ s boss , President Trump , has threatened to leave the WTO .
• The Trump @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the nomination of new judges .
• Perdue ’ s own farm bailouts to cushion the blow from the president ’ s trade war with China are themselves an unprecedented violation of WTO rules .
International agreements limit certain farm subsidies to $ 19.1 billion a year .
But Trump ’ s unprecedented bailouts for his trade war and mismanagement of the Covid-19 crisis have pushed spending on these trade-distorting subsidies to $ 34 billion in 2019 and $ 46 billion this year .
Going over this limit could result in more new @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this additional spending consistently went to the largest producers , to the detriment of small struggling farmers .
Additionally , according to the Government Accountability Office , these payments overwhelmingly went to Perdue ’ s home state of Georgia .
Trump has repeatedly promised to provide Americans with “ crystal clear drinking water.
” But across the U.S. , drinking water is polluted with pathogens and chemicals from farms , including high levels of nitrates found in fertilizer and animal manure , and toxins produced by algae blooms .
If Trump and Perdue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ drinking polluted water , too .

President Donald Trump and his secretary of agriculture have a message for Europeans: We want you to drink polluted water too.
Worried that Europe’s efforts to combat farm pollution could be “contagious,” Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue has threatened to take Europe to court if it proceeds with a farm to fork strategy that is part of the European Union’s version of the Green New Deal.
That’s the same Sonny Perdue who is already in hot water for repeatedly violating trade agreements designed to limit farm subsidies, and for breaching the Hatch Act by campaigning for President Trump at government events.
The EU’s Farm to Fork plan would set higher standards for farm pollution, including new limits on fertilizer and pesticide applications. Specifically, the plan includes:
Having one-fourth of all farmland in Europe be organic
Reducing the use and risk of pesticides by half
Reducing the use of fertilizers by one-fifth
Implementation of stronger animal welfare reforms
A requirement to meet these standards could be tough for American farmers, who are not subject to U.S. pollution laws. Perdue has dubbed standards that protect people from pathogens and cancer-causing chemicals “extremely problematic” and “protectionist.”
Worst of all, Perdue told reporters, is that a sustainable food system “has the possibility of being contagious into other areas outside the food and ag sector.”
Without irony, Perdue threatened to challenge the new EU standards before the World Trade Organization, or WTO. This move would be surprising, to say the least, for three reasons.
Perdue’s boss, President Trump, has threatened to leave the WTO.
The Trump administration has paralyzed WTO courts by blocking the nomination of new judges.
Perdue’s own farm bailouts to cushion the blow from the president’s trade war with China are themselves an unprecedented violation of WTO rules.
International agreements limit certain farm subsidies to $19.1 billion a year. But Trump’s unprecedented bailouts for his trade war and mismanagement of the Covid-19 crisis have pushed spending on these trade-distorting subsidies to $34 billion in 2019 and $46 billion this year. Going over this limit could result in more new tariffs on U.S. exports.
All of this additional spending consistently went to the largest producers, to the detriment of small struggling farmers. Additionally, according to the Government Accountability Office, these payments overwhelmingly went to Perdue’s home state of Georgia.
Trump has repeatedly promised to provide Americans with “crystal clear drinking water.” But across the U.S., drinking water is polluted with pathogens and chemicals from farms, including high levels of nitrates found in fertilizer and animal manure, and toxins produced by algae blooms.
If Trump and Perdue get their way, Europeans will be drinking polluted water, too.


environmentalworkinggroupewg--2020-10-19--New EWG Healthy Living App Includes Healthy Cleaners

WASHINGTON – The Environmental Working Group has added information about healthy cleaners to its Healthy Living App , putting ratings at shoppers ’ fingertips for more than 122,000 foods , personal care products and now healthy cleaners .
EWG developed the Healthy Living App to help consumers find products that meet the organization ’ s rigorous standards for health and safety .
The new app combines three of EWG ’ s most popular resources , Skin Deep® , Food Scores and the Guide to Healthy Cleaners .
Shoppers can scan the bar codes of products and foods to see how @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The app ’ s improved user interface makes it easier for shoppers to find healthier products .
Consumers who want to limit their exposure to harmful ingredients can now create , manage and share lists of their favorite products .
The app allows users to search more than 2,500 cleaning products , including the first EWG VERIFIED™ cleaners .
The updated app also now includes links to EWG ’ s popular Shopper ’ s Guide to Pesticides in Produce™ .
And a new feature allows users to submit photos of products not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to add new products to the databases .
“ We ’ ve streamlined the app experience , ” said Helen Lucey , EWG ’ s senior digital marketing manager .
“ In addition to adding all these new products , we ’ ve improved existing features , like the scanner , to make it more user-friendly.
” EWG ’ s Healthy Living Science team is led by Nneka Leiba and includes researchers who continually review the latest groundbreaking scientific research , and update the criteria used to determine how products are rated in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ draws on the most recent information to provide consumers with details about products and ingredients , so they can make more informed purchasing decisions .
“ EWG has revolutionized the way consumers choose the products they use every day by providing easily accessible information that helps keep them up to date about potential ingredient harms and concerns , ” Leiba said .
“ This app update is just the latest example of how we are working to empower people to make better choices.
” “ Skin Deep picks up where the government and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and database analyst Carla Burns .
“ It provides easy-to-navigate ratings , as well as the science behind those ratings , so consumers know they can trust the information.
” Since its creation , EWG ’ s Healthy Living App has been installed 2.55 million times .
This year alone , it ’ s had 623,000 users , and 2.33 million sessions .
“ Finding healthier cleaning products should be smooth and effortless , but far too often , the process is exactly the opposite , ” said Samara Geller , EWG senior @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s why the addition of cleaners to the app has been so highly anticipated .
It puts thousands of ratings into the hands of consumers wherever they go , making it easier than ever to find practical solutions to protect themselves and their families.
” The update is available for iPhone only .
Stay tuned for an update for other smart devices .
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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ civic action .
https : //www.ewg.org/apps/

WASHINGTON – The Environmental Working Group has added information about healthy cleaners to its Healthy Living App, putting ratings at shoppers’ fingertips for more than 122,000 foods, personal care products and now healthy cleaners.
EWG developed the Healthy Living App to help consumers find products that meet the organization’s rigorous standards for health and safety. The new app combines three of EWG’s most popular resources, Skin Deep®, Food Scores and the Guide to Healthy Cleaners. Shoppers can scan the bar codes of products and foods to see how they rate in EWG’s databases.
The app’s improved user interface makes it easier for shoppers to find healthier products. Consumers who want to limit their exposure to harmful ingredients can now create, manage and share lists of their favorite products. The app allows users to search more than 2,500 cleaning products, including the first EWG VERIFIED™ cleaners.
The updated app also now includes links to EWG’s popular Shopper’s Guide to Pesticides in Produce™. And a new feature allows users to submit photos of products not found, which EWG can then use to add new products to the databases.
“We’ve streamlined the app experience,” said Helen Lucey, EWG’s senior digital marketing manager. “In addition to adding all these new products, we’ve improved existing features, like the scanner, to make it more user-friendly.”
EWG’s Healthy Living Science team is led by Nneka Leiba and includes researchers who continually review the latest groundbreaking scientific research, and update the criteria used to determine how products are rated in the databases. The Healthy Living app draws on the most recent information to provide consumers with details about products and ingredients, so they can make more informed purchasing decisions.
“EWG has revolutionized the way consumers choose the products they use every day by providing easily accessible information that helps keep them up to date about potential ingredient harms and concerns,” Leiba said. “This app update is just the latest example of how we are working to empower people to make better choices.”
“Skin Deep picks up where the government and industry leave off,” said research and database analyst Carla Burns. “It provides easy-to-navigate ratings, as well as the science behind those ratings, so consumers know they can trust the information.”
Since its creation, EWG’s Healthy Living App has been installed 2.55 million times. This year alone, it’s had 623,000 users, and 2.33 million sessions.
“Finding healthier cleaning products should be smooth and effortless, but far too often, the process is exactly the opposite,” said Samara Geller, EWG senior Healthy Living Science analyst. “That’s why the addition of cleaners to the app has been so highly anticipated. It puts thousands of ratings into the hands of consumers wherever they go, making it easier than ever to find practical solutions to protect themselves and their families.”
The update is available for iPhone only. Stay tuned for an update for other smart devices.
###
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. https://www.ewg.org/apps/


environmentalworkinggroupewg--2020-10-26--Why Are DuPont and Chemours Still Discharging the Most Notorious ‘Forever Chemical’?

The Big Bang of the nationwide “ forever chemicals ” crisis was the revelation in 2001 that PFOA , a toxic compound used to make Teflon , had contaminated the drinking water for 70,000 people near a DuPont factory in West Virginia .
Pressure from the Environmental Protection Agency forced DuPont and other companies to phase out PFOA , and they agreed not to use it after 2015 .
So why are DuPont and its spinoff company Chemours still discharging PFOA from their facilities ?
Last week , Rep. Harley Rouda ( D-Calif. ) , who chairs the Environment Subcommittee @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Reform , sent a letter to DuPont and Chemours asking why they ’ re still discharging a highly toxic substance they claim not to have used in years .
PFOA is the most notorious of the thousands of fluorinated chemicals known as PFAS , which have contaminated drinking water for an estimated 200 million-plus Americans .
Very small doses of PFOA and some other PFAS have been linked to kidney and testicular cancer , thyroid issues , high cholesterol , reproductive and developmental harms and reduced effectiveness of vaccines .
The Centers for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pollute the bodies of virtually all Americans , including newborn babies .
PFOA and other PFAS are called “ forever chemicals ” because they never break down in the environment .
PFAS discharged over the past 50 years by companies like DuPont and 3M – which knew it was dangerous as early as the 1950s – will stay in the environment until it ’ s actively remediated .
Rouda ’ s letter asks DuPont about its ongoing PFOA discharges at its Circleville Works plant , in Ohio , and Chemours about its Washington @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the most notorious PFAS contamination site in the world .
The Parkersburg facility was owned by DuPont until it spun off its chemical division into Chemours , in 2015 .
For decades , DuPont dumped PFAS into the Ohio River in West Virginia , killing farm animals and poisoning the water of surrounding communities .
The contamination in Parkersburg and subsequent lawsuit were the subject of an acclaimed feature film released last year .
There are no federally enforceable limits on any PFAS in drinking water , groundwater or soils , or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the federal Superfund law .
Only five states have placed limits on a handful of PFAS , and the EPA has the ability to test for only 29 PFAS in drinking water .
Rouda asked about the discharges because both companies have said publicly they no longer use PFOA .
Chemours claims it has “ never made or used PFOA.
” Yet data from the EPA ’ s Enforcement and Compliance History Online database shows ongoing discharges from both the Circleville and Parkersburg facilities .
For example , daily monitoring updates for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ discharged in 2019 .
The continued releases could be an indication that the two companies are still using PFOA , despite their assurances otherwise .
If so , that would be a serious breach of public trust .
But there are other possible explanations for these discharges .
There could be PFOA in products or mixtures used at the facilities .
Or “ legacy ” PFOA remaining in water used at the facilities could be showing up – an alarming reminder of the chemical ’ s persistence in the environment .
Even if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ regulators about their use of PFOA , we should be alarmed at its continued presence in discharges as legacy contamination , because it underscores how merely ending the use of a toxic substance like PFOA will not make the contamination disappear .
History shows that even decades after being banned , some chemicals ’ ongoing impact continues to be deeply harmful to health and the environment .
The ongoing cleanup of another group of forever chemicals , polychlorinated biphenyls , or PCBs , underscores the gravity and longevity of the PFAS problem .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ 1929 and are linked to various health harms , including cancer , reproductive harms and immune effects .
They were widely used for a myriad of industrial purposes , until they were banned as a class by Congress , in 1976 .
But 44 years later , PCBs remain prevalent in the environment .
Just this summer , Bayer , which acquired Monsanto in 2018 , agreed to pay $ 650 million to 2,500 cities , counties and ports to clean up PCB contamination .
And there may be still more contamination : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be leaching from building materials in nearly 26,000 schools .
The challenge of cleaning up PCBs pales in comparison to the coming PFAS crisis .
The EPA has identified just over 200 PCBs , and there are far more PFAS chemicals .
The EPA ’ s most recent update of its CompTox database identified more than 9,000 different compounds related to PFAS .
The EPA has reported that at least 600 PFAS are being used in commerce .
A recent study identified over 200 categories of use for more than 1,400 individual PFAS @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were banned and subject to cleanup regulations , PFAS remain largely unregulated .
Manufacturers have agreed to phaseouts of only a handful .
And some companies that are not subject to those agreements have admitted they still use PFOA .
Even if the ongoing discharges in Ohio and West Virginia can be attributed to legacy discharges , that ’ s little comfort .
It underscores how even if industry stops using PFOA or other PFAS chemicals , they will be with us for a long time – and that as we try to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ environment , it ’ s being replaced with newer kinds of PFAS that are less studied and , research shows , potentially as dangerous , with many of the same toxicity concerns as old PFAS chemicals .
For example , regulators in New Jersey have found that the manufacturer Solvay has replaced PFNA , a PFAS chemical it phased out in 2010 , with a new PFAS chemical that is toxic to the liver at potentially even lower doses than PFNA or PFOA .
As reported last year by Sharon Lerner of The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than 40 new PFAS chemicals on the market reported to pose “ substantial risk.
” Congress must take decisive action to address the PFAS problem , including : • Limiting discharges of PFAS into the air and water • Placing a moratorium on the introduction of new PFAS chemicals DuPont and Chemours must respond quickly to Rouda ’ s inquiry and account for their ongoing discharges of PFOA .
If they have misled the public about ongoing use of this toxic chemical , they should be held accountable .
Without aggressive action , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the planet for centuries to come .

The Big Bang of the nationwide “forever chemicals” crisis was the revelation in 2001 that PFOA, a toxic compound used to make Teflon, had contaminated the drinking water for 70,000 people near a DuPont factory in West Virginia. Pressure from the Environmental Protection Agency forced DuPont and other companies to phase out PFOA, and they agreed not to use it after 2015.
So why are DuPont and its spinoff company Chemours still discharging PFOA from their facilities?
Last week, Rep. Harley Rouda (D-Calif.), who chairs the Environment Subcommittee of the House Committee on Oversight and Reform, sent a letter to DuPont and Chemours asking why they’re still discharging a highly toxic substance they claim not to have used in years.
PFOA is the most notorious of the thousands of fluorinated chemicals known as PFAS, which have contaminated drinking water for an estimated 200 million-plus Americans. Very small doses of PFOA and some other PFAS have been linked to kidney and testicular cancer, thyroid issues, high cholesterol, reproductive and developmental harms and reduced effectiveness of vaccines. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says these chemicals pollute the bodies of virtually all Americans, including newborn babies.
PFOA and other PFAS are called “forever chemicals” because they never break down in the environment. PFAS discharged over the past 50 years by companies like DuPont and 3M – which knew it was dangerous as early as the 1950s – will stay in the environment until it’s actively remediated.
Rouda’s letter asks DuPont about its ongoing PFOA discharges at its Circleville Works plant, in Ohio, and Chemours about its Washington Works facility, in Parkersburg, W.V., the most notorious PFAS contamination site in the world.
The Parkersburg facility was owned by DuPont until it spun off its chemical division into Chemours, in 2015. For decades, DuPont dumped PFAS into the Ohio River in West Virginia, killing farm animals and poisoning the water of surrounding communities. The contamination in Parkersburg and subsequent lawsuit were the subject of an acclaimed feature film released last year.
There are no federally enforceable limits on any PFAS in drinking water, groundwater or soils, or any requirements to clean up PFAS under the federal Superfund law. Only five states have placed limits on a handful of PFAS, and the EPA has the ability to test for only 29 PFAS in drinking water.
Rouda asked about the discharges because both companies have said publicly they no longer use PFOA. Chemours claims it has “never made or used PFOA.” Yet data from the EPA’s Enforcement and Compliance History Online database shows ongoing discharges from both the Circleville and Parkersburg facilities. For example, daily monitoring updates for the Parkersburg site reported 323.5 pounds of PFOA discharged in 2019.
The continued releases could be an indication that the two companies are still using PFOA, despite their assurances otherwise. If so, that would be a serious breach of public trust. But there are other possible explanations for these discharges. There could be PFOA in products or mixtures used at the facilities. Or “legacy” PFOA remaining in water used at the facilities could be showing up – an alarming reminder of the chemical’s persistence in the environment.
Even if DuPont and Chemours are being honest with regulators about their use of PFOA, we should be alarmed at its continued presence in discharges as legacy contamination, because it underscores how merely ending the use of a toxic substance like PFOA will not make the contamination disappear. History shows that even decades after being banned, some chemicals’ ongoing impact continues to be deeply harmful to health and the environment.
The ongoing cleanup of another group of forever chemicals, polychlorinated biphenyls, or PCBs, underscores the gravity and longevity of the PFAS problem.
PCBs were manufactured by Monsanto beginning in 1929 and are linked to various health harms, including cancer, reproductive harms and immune effects. They were widely used for a myriad of industrial purposes, until they were banned as a class by Congress, in 1976.
But 44 years later, PCBs remain prevalent in the environment. Just this summer, Bayer, which acquired Monsanto in 2018, agreed to pay $650 million to 2,500 cities, counties and ports to clean up PCB contamination. And there may be still more contamination: A 2015 study found that PCBs could be leaching from building materials in nearly 26,000 schools.
The challenge of cleaning up PCBs pales in comparison to the coming PFAS crisis. The EPA has identified just over 200 PCBs, and there are far more PFAS chemicals. The EPA’s most recent update of its CompTox database identified more than 9,000 different compounds related to PFAS. The EPA has reported that at least 600 PFAS are being used in commerce. A recent study identified over 200 categories of use for more than 1,400 individual PFAS chemicals.
And unlike PCBs, which were banned and subject to cleanup regulations, PFAS remain largely unregulated. Manufacturers have agreed to phaseouts of only a handful. And some companies that are not subject to those agreements have admitted they still use PFOA.
Even if the ongoing discharges in Ohio and West Virginia can be attributed to legacy discharges, that’s little comfort. It underscores how even if industry stops using PFOA or other PFAS chemicals, they will be with us for a long time – and that as we try to get rid of the PFOA in the environment, it’s being replaced with newer kinds of PFAS that are less studied and, research shows, potentially as dangerous, with many of the same toxicity concerns as old PFAS chemicals.
For example, regulators in New Jersey have found that the manufacturer Solvay has replaced PFNA, a PFAS chemical it phased out in 2010, with a new PFAS chemical that is toxic to the liver at potentially even lower doses than PFNA or PFOA. As reported last year by Sharon Lerner of The Intercept, the EPA has allowed more than 40 new PFAS chemicals on the market reported to pose “substantial risk.”
Congress must take decisive action to address the PFAS problem, including:
Designating PFAS hazardous substances under our Superfund law
Setting health-protective limits on PFAS in drinking water
Limiting discharges of PFAS into the air and water
Placing a moratorium on the introduction of new PFAS chemicals
Banning non-essential uses of PFAS
Funding cleanup and drinking water treatment
DuPont and Chemours must respond quickly to Rouda’s inquiry and account for their ongoing discharges of PFOA. If they have misled the public about ongoing use of this toxic chemical, they should be held accountable. Without aggressive action, PFAS chemicals will continue polluting people and the planet for centuries to come.


environmentalworkinggroupewg--2020-10-28--Defying a Federal Court Order, Trump’s EPA Approves Continued Use of Toxic Weedkiller Dicamba

WASHINGTON – In defiance of a federal court order , on Tuesday the Environmental Protection Agency extended the use of a weedkiller linked to cancer , pitting farmers who use it on genetically engineered crops against others whose adjacent fields can be devastated by drift of the chemical .
The EPA will permit three herbicides – Syngenta ’ s Tavium , Bayer ’ s XtendiMax and BASF ’ s Engenia – based on the chemical , called dicamba , to remain in use between 2021 and 2025 .
The EPA ’ s decision ignores an order in June by the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ use of dicamba .
In its opinion , the court cited the EPA ’ s failure to acknowledge the risks the chemical poses to conventional crops and the environment .
“ Protecting the pesticide industry has been a top priority of the EPA during the Trump administration , ” said EWG President Ken Cook .
“ Millions of acres of crops will continue to be damaged , and the health of farmworkers , children and all those who live near farms where dicamba is used will be at risk – all in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is highly volatile and can easily drift onto unprotected neighboring fields from fields of crops genetically engineered to withstand it .
As a result , it has destroyed millions of acres of soybeans , cotton and other crops throughout the Midwest .
The weedkiller has become a poster child for the arms race between ever-stronger weeds and ever-stronger weedkillers .
Dicamba has been linked to increased risk of cancer and nervous system damage in pesticide applicators .
A 2006 study by the National Cancer Institute found an increased risk of colon cancer for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ crops .
The EPA ’ s own risk assessment of the weedkiller shows children between 1 and 2 years old are the group most heavily exposed to dicamba residues on food .
EWG ’ s analysis of the assessment found that if the EPA followed the rules to protect children ’ s health required by the Food Quality Protection Act of 1996 , dicamba would be banned .
EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler ignored the science showing dicamba can pose risks to the environment , farmworkers and children in order “ to provide certainty @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be allowed to continue spraying the herbicide on GMO soybean and cotton fields .
The dicamba decision echoes one of the first major decisions by the Trump EPA .
In March 2017 , then-Administrator Scott Pruitt vacated an expected ban of the pesticide chlorpyrifos , which the agency ’ s own scientists found can damage children ’ s brains .
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 @ @ @ @ @ @

WASHINGTON – In defiance of a federal court order, on Tuesday the Environmental Protection Agency extended the use of a weedkiller linked to cancer, pitting farmers who use it on genetically engineered crops against others whose adjacent fields can be devastated by drift of the chemical.
The EPA will permit three herbicides – Syngenta’s Tavium, Bayer’s XtendiMax and BASF’s Engenia – based on the chemical, called dicamba, to remain in use between 2021 and 2025.
The EPA’s decision ignores an order in June by the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals vacating the use of dicamba. In its opinion, the court cited the EPA’s failure to acknowledge the risks the chemical poses to conventional crops and the environment.
“Protecting the pesticide industry has been a top priority of the EPA during the Trump administration,” said EWG President Ken Cook. “Millions of acres of crops will continue to be damaged, and the health of farmworkers, children and all those who live near farms where dicamba is used will be at risk – all in the name of appeasing chemical agriculture.”
Dicamba is highly volatile and can easily drift onto unprotected neighboring fields from fields of crops genetically engineered to withstand it. As a result, it has destroyed millions of acres of soybeans, cotton and other crops throughout the Midwest. The weedkiller has become a poster child for the arms race between ever-stronger weeds and ever-stronger weedkillers.
Dicamba has been linked to increased risk of cancer and nervous system damage in pesticide applicators. A 2006 study by the National Cancer Institute found an increased risk of colon cancer for those who handle and apply dicamba to crops.
The EPA’s own risk assessment of the weedkiller shows children between 1 and 2 years old are the group most heavily exposed to dicamba residues on food. EWG’s analysis of the assessment found that if the EPA followed the rules to protect children’s health required by the Food Quality Protection Act of 1996, dicamba would be banned.
EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler ignored the science showing dicamba can pose risks to the environment, farmworkers and children in order “to provide certainty” to farmers who have demanded they be allowed to continue spraying the herbicide on GMO soybean and cotton fields.
The dicamba decision echoes one of the first major decisions by the Trump EPA. In March 2017, then-Administrator Scott Pruitt vacated an expected ban of the pesticide chlorpyrifos, which the agency’s own scientists found can damage children’s brains.
###
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--2020-10-30--EWG News Roundup (10/30): EPA Extends the Use of Harmful Pesticide, DuPont Still Discharges PFOA and

EWG News Roundup (10/30): EPA Extends the Use of Harmful Pesticide, DuPont Still Discharges PFOA and More

This week , the Environmental Protection Agency , defying a court order , extended the use of dicamba , a weedkiller linked to cancer .
This decision pits farmers who spray the pesticide on their genetically modified crops against those on nearby farms whose crops can be damaged by its drift .
“ Protecting the pesticide industry has been a top priority of the EPA during the Trump administration , ” said EWG President Ken Cook .
“ Millions of acres of crops will continue to be damaged , and the health of farmworkers , children and all those who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be at risk – all in the name of appeasing chemical agriculture.
” Chemical giant DuPont announced in 2015 that it would phase out the use of PFOA , a toxic compound used to make Teflon .
Yet DuPont and its spinoff company Chemours still discharge PFOA from their facilities .
Rep. Harley Rouda ( D-Calif. ) , chair of the Environment Subcommittee of the House Committee on Oversight and Reform , has called on DuPont and Chemours to explain why these discharges are still happening .
On Thursday , EWG held @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s Director of Government Affairs Caroline Kitchens , EWG Senior Advisor Don Carr , and EWG Policy Analyst Jared Hayes to discuss a recent report that shows 33 members of Congress have collected nearly $ 16 million in farm federal subsidies .
Here ’ s some news you can use going into the weekend .
To better understand the concerns of environmental advocates , I followed up on these interviews by calling Tasha Stoiber , PhD , a senior scientist at the nonprofitEnvironmental Working Group , and Bobbi Wilding , deputy director at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ organization that ’ s reviewed what ’ s inside crib mattresses .
Green and Clean Mom : Best Baby Detergent for Sensitive Skin I have tried to find the best products , with the least chemicals that can harm sensitive skin .
I have done that by using EWG ’ s guide to laundry detergents which show which products have those kinds of chemicals in them .
Healthline Parenthood : The Best Natural Baby Products of 2020 As it turns out , there are several ingredients — including parabens , synthetic fragrances , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ like the Environmental Working Group ( EWG ) and the Environmental Protection Agency ( EPA ) have linked to negative health effects .
One major way for our state to increase revenues without increasing taxes is by eliminating tax subsidies .
According to the Environmental Working Group , Missouri granted $ 881,731,000 in farming subsidies to recipients in 2019 .
Indianapolis Star : 'Farming is in a funny place politically ' : Will farmers still vote for Trump after 4 tough years ?
To help , Trump has handed out unprecedented amounts of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , according to the Environmental Working Group .
That helps in the short-term , the organization said , but it leaves the core of the issues unaddressed .
Powell Tribune ( Powell , Wyo . )
: Subsidies can be helpful , but Washington wastes tax dollars According to an analysis by the Environmental Working Group , the top 1 % of farms in terms of revenue , received 16 % of MFP payments , with the average total payment for any farm in that category being $ 524,689 .
Plus , according @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Group , dish soaps like Dawn or Xtra have chemicals potentially harmful to people and the environment .
The purity of bottled water has been in question since at least 2009 , when the Environmental Working Group ( EWG ) released a Bottled Water Scorecard showing that most bottled water brands failed to disclose contaminants in their water .
C|Net : Best gifts for Mom in 2020 Many mattresses may expose you to nasty chemicals , flame retardants and potentially toxic foams .
As such , the Environmental Working Group recommends mattresses that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wool or natural latex -- like the Avocado Green , which is made from a combination of all three .
It ’ s vegan , cruelty-free , and rated a 2 on the Environmental Working Group ( EWG ) ’ s Skin Deep database .
According to findings from one study conducted by the Environmental Working Group ( EWG ) , women living in the U.S use an average of 12 beauty products every day , containing nearly 200 chemicals , and it ’ s not always easy to know exactly what chemicals @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Red Tricycle : 5 Clean Products to Use During Pregnancy , Breastfeeding & Beyond I used The Environmental Working Group ’ s ( ewg..org ) searchable database to check how the ingredients in the products I was using measured up against their safety guidelines and I was surprised at what I found .
treehugger : The Best Black Friday and Cyber Monday Deals of 2020 Many beauty products contain questionable ingredients , so we always recommend checking resources such as the Environmental Working Group 's Skin Deep database .
The EWG app ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Review its Rating .
Pick the Better Choice .
What used to be two separate health apps for food and beauty products has been combined into one for easier access to the products you use .
Fast Company : Michelle Pfeiffer ’ s Henry Rose now has nontoxic bath , body , and candle linesJust like with the original line of fragrances , Pfeiffer partnered with Environmental Working Group to ensure that every ingredients used in the new products is verified to be safe .
Nylon : Henry Rose ’ s Best-Selling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Candles , and More It offered a range of exciting new fine fragrances , following standards far stricter than the fragrance industry typically followed or enforced — making its products the first fine fragrances to be EWG Verified .
Now , the brand is expanding its vision beyond smell , extending into new categories for the very first time .
Women ’ s Wear Daily : Michelle Pfeiffer Discusses Expansion of Her Fragrance Line , New Film ‘ French Exit ’ ( subscription ) And then I reached out to EWG to see @ @ @ @ @ @ @ They said “ Well , we can ’ t really do a collaboration .
That would be a conflict of interest , of course.
” And that was when I learned it ’ s not that all fragrance is super toxic , it ’ s that we don ’ t know what ’ s in it , because of the lack of transparency .
Like so many other new products , the formulas are free of a host of ingredients like phthalates , parabens and the like , and certified by the Environmental @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Innovation Institute .
Nation of Change : EPA approves use of herbicides linked to cancer and crop cross contamination “ Protecting the pesticide industry has been a top priority of the EPA during the Trump administration , ” said EWG President Ken Cook .
“ Millions of acres of crops will continue to be damaged , and the health of farmworkers , children and all those who live near farms where dicamba is used will be at risk—all in the name of appeasing chemical agriculture .
Head Topics : Is Cereal Good For @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of headlines about the weed killer glyphosate in oat cereal , thanks to a report from the Environmental Working Group ( EWG ) .
The EWG set its own safety threshold ( far lower than the government ’ s ) and claims their tests reveal unsafe levels of glyphosate in many oat cereals .
But even the EWG says the risk is from long-term exposure , so I make sure to vary the kinds of cereals ( and the kinds of breakfasts ) I eat .
Wisconsin Public Radio : New Report Finds @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Wisconsin Up To $ 80M in Medical Expenses The epidemiological studies underlying the report 's findings ca n't account for all factors that may cause disease , said Olga Naidenko , the report 's co-author and researcher with the Environmental Working Group .
The Washington D.C. based environmental working group identified 37 utilities serving nearly 25,000 Texans in violation of federal standards for clean water .
Inside EPA : Industry Likely To Step Up Scrutiny Of States ’ PFAS Limits Next Year But Melanie Benesh , a legislative attorney with the Environmental Working @ @ @ @ @ @ @ session that the states ’ regulations are lagging behind the science .
The Telegraph ( Alton , Ill. ) : State Says Saranac Lake airport contaminated by PFAS Advocacy groups , like the Environmental Working Group , argue even 1 part per trillion is unsafe and have data showing 200 million Americans could be drinking at least that much of the chemical each day .
Fayetteville Observer ( N.C. ) : PFAS found in private wells 12 miles from Chemours plant near Fayetteville , DEQ says The Environmental Working Group , a nonprofit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ doses of PFAS compounds have been linked to cancer , harm to reproductive and immune systems , and other diseases .
The Environmental Working Group has again named strawberries , spinach and kale as the first three items on its polarizing “ Dirty Dozen ” list .
MSN : 50 easy ways to save on your weekly grocery visits The Environmental Working Group has a list that outlines conventionally farmed fruits and vegetables that you do n't have to buy organic .
Medical Daily : Worried About What ’ s In Your Food @ @ @ @ @ @ @ nonprofit Environmental Working Group ( EWG ) independently tests common fruits and vegetables for pesticides .
Every year they list the “ dirty dozen ” -- the 12 foods with the most pesticide residue : strawberries , spinach , kale , nectarines , apples , grapes , peaches , cherries , pears , tomatoes , celery and potatoes .
94.3 The Point ( N.J. ) : Which Plant-Based Milk Is Best for the Planet ?
You ’ d Be Surprised A recent study by the Environmental Working Group tested for glyphosate and found @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it tested containing conventionally grown oats—and even in one-third of products made with organic oats .
Chemical and Engineering News : Pipes could release toxic chromium into tap water More than 200 million people in the US drink tap water with Cr ( VI ) concentrations above 0.02 ppb , according to the Environmental Working Group .
Water utilities testing found pollutants in American ’ s tap water according to an EWG drinking water quality analysis of 32 million state water records .

This week, the Environmental Protection Agency, defying a court order, extended the use of dicamba, a weedkiller linked to cancer. This decision pits farmers who spray the pesticide on their genetically modified crops against those on nearby farms whose crops can be damaged by its drift.
“Protecting the pesticide industry has been a top priority of the EPA during the Trump administration,” said EWG President Ken Cook. “Millions of acres of crops will continue to be damaged, and the health of farmworkers, children and all those who live near farms where dicamba is used will be at risk – all in the name of appeasing chemical agriculture.”
Chemical giant DuPont announced in 2015 that it would phase out the use of PFOA, a toxic compound used to make Teflon. Yet DuPont and its spinoff company Chemours still discharge PFOA from their facilities. Rep. Harley Rouda (D-Calif.), chair of the Environment Subcommittee of the House Committee on Oversight and Reform, has called on DuPont and Chemours to explain why these discharges are still happening.
On Thursday, EWG held a Facebook Live with R Street’s Director of Government Affairs Caroline Kitchens, EWG Senior Advisor Don Carr, and EWG Policy Analyst Jared Hayes to discuss a recent report that shows 33 members of Congress have collected nearly $16 million in farm federal subsidies.
Here’s some news you can use going into the weekend.
Children’s Health
Wirecutter: The Best Crib Mattresses
To better understand the concerns of environmental advocates, I followed up on these interviews by calling Tasha Stoiber, PhD, a senior scientist at the nonprofitEnvironmental Working Group, and Bobbi Wilding, deputy director at Clean and Healthy New York, an organization that’s reviewed what’s inside crib mattresses.
Green and Clean Mom: Best Baby Detergent for Sensitive Skin
I have tried to find the best products, with the least chemicals that can harm sensitive skin. I have done that by using EWG’s guide to laundry detergents which show which products have those kinds of chemicals in them.
Healthline Parenthood: The Best Natural Baby Products of 2020
As it turns out, there are several ingredients — including parabens, synthetic fragrances, sulfates, and phthalates — that groups like the Environmental Working Group (EWG) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have linked to negative health effects.
Trump’s Farmer Bailout
Ozarks Independent (Mo.): Candidate Q&A: House District 135
One major way for our state to increase revenues without increasing taxes is by eliminating tax subsidies. According to the Environmental Working Group, Missouri granted $881,731,000 in farming subsidies to recipients in 2019.
Indianapolis Star: 'Farming is in a funny place politically': Will farmers still vote for Trump after 4 tough years?
To help, Trump has handed out unprecedented amounts of federal aid to farmers during his time, according to the Environmental Working Group. That helps in the short-term, the organization said, but it leaves the core of the issues unaddressed.
Powell Tribune (Powell, Wyo.): Subsidies can be helpful, but Washington wastes tax dollars
According to an analysis by the Environmental Working Group, the top 1% of farms in terms of revenue, received 16% of MFP payments, with the average total payment for any farm in that category being $524,689.
Cleaning Products
Daily Campus: A Zero Waste Project: A DIY Dish Soap
Plus, according to Greenify Me and the Environmental Working Group, dish soaps like Dawn or Xtra have chemicals potentially harmful to people and the environment.
USSA News: What’s Inside Your Bottled Water?
The purity of bottled water has been in question since at least 2009, when the Environmental Working Group (EWG) released a Bottled Water Scorecard showing that most bottled water brands failed to disclose contaminants in their water.
Consumer Products
C|Net: Best gifts for Mom in 2020
Many mattresses may expose you to nasty chemicals, flame retardants and potentially toxic foams. As such, the Environmental Working Group recommends mattresses that are at least 95% cotton, wool or natural latex -- like the Avocado Green, which is made from a combination of all three.
Skin Deep® Cosmetics Database
Healthline: The Best Night Creams
It’s vegan, cruelty-free, and rated a 2 on the Environmental Working Group (EWG)’s Skin Deep database.
Dr. Axe: California Bans Chemicals in Beauty Products
According to findings from one study conducted by the Environmental Working Group (EWG), women living in the U.S use an average of 12 beauty products every day, containing nearly 200 chemicals, and it’s not always easy to know exactly what chemicals in beauty products you might find.
Red Tricycle: 5 Clean Products to Use During Pregnancy, Breastfeeding & Beyond
I used The Environmental Working Group’s (ewg..org) searchable database to check how the ingredients in the products I was using measured up against their safety guidelines and I was surprised at what I found.
treehugger: The Best Black Friday and Cyber Monday Deals of 2020
Many beauty products contain questionable ingredients, so we always recommend checking resources such as the Environmental Working Group's Skin Deep database.
EWG’s Healthy Living App Update
Daily Mom: Health Apps To Screen Everyday Items For Harmful Ingredients
The EWG app’s motto is: Scan a Product. Review its Rating. Pick the Better Choice. What used to be two separate health apps for food and beauty products has been combined into one for easier access to the products you use.
EWG VERIFIED®
Fast Company: Michelle Pfeiffer’s Henry Rose now has nontoxic bath, body, and candle linesJust like with the original line of fragrances, Pfeiffer partnered with Environmental Working Group to ensure that every ingredients used in the new products is verified to be safe.
Nylon: Henry Rose’s Best-Selling Scents Now Come In Body Creams, Candles, and More
It offered a range of exciting new fine fragrances, following standards far stricter than the fragrance industry typically followed or enforced — making its products the first fine fragrances to be EWG Verified. Now, the brand is expanding its vision beyond smell, extending into new categories for the very first time.
Women’s Wear Daily: Michelle Pfeiffer Discusses Expansion of Her Fragrance Line, New Film ‘French Exit’ (subscription)
And then I reached out to EWG to see if they would collaborate with me. They said “Well, we can’t really do a collaboration. That would be a conflict of interest, of course.” And that was when I learned it’s not that all fragrance is super toxic, it’s that we don’t know what’s in it, because of the lack of transparency.
Happi: Ah, Pfeiffer!
Like so many other new products, the formulas are free of a host of ingredients like phthalates, parabens and the like, and certified by the Environmental Working Group and Cradle to Cradle Products Innovation Institute.
Farming Practices
Nation of Change: EPA approves use of herbicides linked to cancer and crop cross contamination
“Protecting the pesticide industry has been a top priority of the EPA during the Trump administration,” said EWG President Ken Cook. “Millions of acres of crops will continue to be damaged, and the health of farmworkers, children and all those who live near farms where dicamba is used will be at risk—all in the name of appeasing chemical agriculture.
Glyphosate in Cereal
Head Topics: Is Cereal Good For You?
There have been a lot of headlines about the weed killer glyphosate in oat cereal, thanks to a report from the Environmental Working Group (EWG). The EWG set its own safety threshold (far lower than the government’s) and claims their tests reveal unsafe levels of glyphosate in many oat cereals. But even the EWG says the risk is from long-term exposure, so I make sure to vary the kinds of cereals (and the kinds of breakfasts) I eat.
Nitrate Water Pollution
Wisconsin Public Radio: New Report Finds Nitrate Pollution In Drinking Water May Cost Wisconsin Up To $80M in Medical Expenses
The epidemiological studies underlying the report's findings can't account for all factors that may cause disease, said Olga Naidenko, the report's co-author and researcher with the Environmental Working Group.
Crossroads Today (Victoria, Texas): Pollution problem continues in Port O’Connor
The Washington D.C. based environmental working group identified 37 utilities serving nearly 25,000 Texans in violation of federal standards for clean water.
PFAS in Drinking Water
Inside EPA: Industry Likely To Step Up Scrutiny Of States’ PFAS Limits Next Year
But Melanie Benesh, a legislative attorney with the Environmental Working Group, said during the same ABA session that the states’ regulations are lagging behind the science.
The Telegraph (Alton, Ill.): State Says Saranac Lake airport contaminated by PFAS
Advocacy groups, like the Environmental Working Group, argue even 1 part per trillion is unsafe and have data showing 200 million Americans could be drinking at least that much of the chemical each day.
Fayetteville Observer (N.C.): PFAS found in private wells 12 miles from Chemours plant near Fayetteville, DEQ says
The Environmental Working Group, a nonprofit group based in Washington, says small doses of PFAS compounds have been linked to cancer, harm to reproductive and immune systems, and other diseases.
Shopper’s Guide to Pesticides in Produce™
The Packer: 2020 “Dirty Dozen” and “Clean Fifteen” lists released
The Environmental Working Group has again named strawberries, spinach and kale as the first three items on its polarizing “Dirty Dozen” list.
MSN: 50 easy ways to save on your weekly grocery visits
The Environmental Working Group has a list that outlines conventionally farmed fruits and vegetables that you don't have to buy organic.
Medical Daily: Worried About What’s In Your Food? You’re Not Alone
The nonprofit Environmental Working Group (EWG) independently tests common fruits and vegetables for pesticides. Every year they list the “ dirty dozen” -- the 12 foods with the most pesticide residue: strawberries, spinach, kale, nectarines, apples, grapes, peaches, cherries, pears, tomatoes, celery and potatoes.
94.3 The Point (N.J.): Which Plant-Based Milk Is Best for the Planet? You’d Be Surprised
A recent study by the Environmental Working Group tested for glyphosate and found that it was in all the foods it tested containing conventionally grown oats—and even in one-third of products made with organic oats.
Tap Water Database
Chemical and Engineering News: Pipes could release toxic chromium into tap water
More than 200 million people in the US drink tap water with Cr(VI) concentrations above 0.02 ppb, according to the Environmental Working Group.
Sassy Townhouse Living: Eco-Friendly Ways To Drink Healthy Water Every Day
Water utilities testing found pollutants in American’s tap water according to an EWG drinking water quality analysis of 32 million state water records.


environmentalworkinggroupewg--2020-11-02--BPA Update: Tracking the Canned Food Phaseout

For decades , most canned food manufacturers used can linings made of epoxy resin based on bisphenol A , or BPA , making food the primary route of our exposure to this toxic chemical .
A robust body of scientific studies shows BPA readily migrates from cans into food and that very small levels are harmful to neurological , cardiovascular , reproductive , endocrine and other biological systems .
Pushed by consumer concern , manufacturers have moved to replace BPA with alternative chemicals .
According to the Can Manufacturers Institute , today about 95 percent of food cans are made @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of other coatings , or polymers .
The trade group says linings are now typically made from non-BPA acrylic or polyester epoxies , or olefin polymers .
But it ’ s unclear whether this vague list includes all alternatives in use – and more importantly , whether they ’ re safer than BPA .
Studies by the National Toxicology Program and other researchers have identified the potential health impacts of some possible replacement chemicals but don ’ t say whether those alternatives have been commercially adopted .
The studies also don ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bisphenol chemicals , such as BPS , which is widely used to coat receipt paper and which can disrupt hormones .
Biomonitoring data analyzed by academic researchers and government agencies show decreases in human exposure to BPA , and increases in exposure to other bisphenols , but again , can ’ t say whether that trend is due to replacement of BPA in cans with other bisphenols .
In 2015 , EWG published results of a survey of canned foods , revealing limited information on BPA substitutes .
Since then , other public @ @ @ @ @ @ @ BPA is still being used and the specific replacement chemicals .
A 2016 investigation by six nonprofit groups [ i ] – “ Buyer Beware : Toxic BPA and regrettable substitutes in the linings of canned food ” – analyzed nearly 200 food cans purchased at locations across the U.S. and Canada .
Analysis with an infrared spectrometer identified BPA-based epoxy resins in 67 percent of the samples .
The tests also identified four major alternative coating types : acrylic resins , oleoresins , polyester resins , and PVC , or polyvinyl chloride-based @ @ @ @ @ @ @ combination of these coating materials .
In 2017 , the Center for Environmental Health , or CEH , also used infrared spectroscopy to test more than 250 canned foods from across the nation for BPA .
CEH also found the chemical was still commonplace , with 38 percent of the cans containing BPA-based linings .
What ’ s more , CEH ’ s second round of testing found a huge disparity in foods purchased in ethnic grocery stores , with BPA in more than 90 percent of can linings .
But by 2019 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of all cans were BPA-free .
But concerns remain , because too much information about the substitutes is hidden .
To make can coatings effective barriers between the food and the metal , polymers of different chains and chemistries are cross-linked together .
Cross-linker agents commonly include formaldehyde , a known human carcinogen , but these agents don ’ t have to be disclosed – nor do other additives or production materials .
In fact , the Food and Drug Administration doesn ’ t require anything about the linings to be labeled , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the coatings can contaminate the food .
How do the hazards of the major alternatives stack up ?
• Acrylic resins have biodegradability and environmental toxicity concerns .
Thirty-nine percent of the acrylic linings detected in the Buyer Beware investigation included polystyrene , which is derived from styrene , a possible human carcinogen and endocrine disruptor .
• Polyesters may have less potential for direct human harm than other alternatives .
However , this group of chemicals is toxic to aquatic life and can persist in the environment for many years .
• @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from vinyl chloride , a known human carcinogen .
The Buyer Beware coalition and CEH both found PVC-based resin was a popular alternative , discovering it in 25 percent and 19 percent of the cans , respectively .
• Whole or partially plant-based oleoresins are commonly derived from trees and are often marketed as safer options .
However , little is publicly known about how oleoresin mixtures are typically formulated .
Limit Your Exposure to BPA and Its Regrettable Substitutes Until we can be sure that all manufacturers have transitioned away from BPA-based @ @ @ @ @ @ @ assessed for safety , be wary of purchasing canned foods .
Some manufacturers label their cans “ BPA free ” but most don ’ t disclose the replacement chemicals .
Even when they do , the complete lining composition is typically withheld .
Can lining formulas may contain a dozen or more different chemicals among the array of food contact materials granted for use by the FDA .
We call on food companies and retailers to label the complete set of chemicals in their linings .
They should also work with coating suppliers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ supply chain to publish the results of private safety and exposure assessments for substitutes .
• When choosing canned goods , contact the company to ask whether it still uses BPA .
If not , ask for details about the replacement – what it is , its safety profile and when the switch was made .
Every can is stamped with a code that corresponds to its production date .
Ask the company which codes indicate that a canned item was manufactured after the BPA phaseout .
• Avoid canned beverages , as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ use BPA .
• Whenever possible , substitute fresh , frozen or dried food for canned .
• Limit how many packaged and processed foods you eat , in general .
BPA may be found in more than just canned foods – for instance , in the lids of foods and beverages packaged in glass jars and bottles , aerosol cans for whipped toppings and nonstick sprays , tins of cooking oil and aluminum beverage cans .
• In California , look for Proposition 65 warnings indicating the possible presence of BPA .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ or shelf sign warnings for products that contain BPA at concentrations above a “ safe harbor level ” or to justify their decision not to provide a warning .
[ i ] Breast Cancer Prevention Partners , Campaign for Healthier Solutions , Clean Production Action ; Ecology Center , Environmental Defence ( Canada ) and Safer Chemicals , Healthy Families ’ Mind the Store campaign .

For decades, most canned food manufacturers used can linings made of epoxy resin based on bisphenol A, or BPA, making food the primary route of our exposure to this toxic chemical. A robust body of scientific studies shows BPA readily migrates from cans into food and that very small levels are harmful to neurological, cardiovascular, reproductive, endocrine and other biological systems.
Pushed by consumer concern, manufacturers have moved to replace BPA with alternative chemicals. According to the Can Manufacturers Institute, today about 95 percent of food cans are made without BPA-based linings, using a variety of other coatings, or polymers. The trade group says linings are now typically made from non-BPA acrylic or polyester epoxies, or olefin polymers. But it’s unclear whether this vague list includes all alternatives in use – and more importantly, whether they’re safer than BPA.
Studies by the National Toxicology Program and other researchers have identified the potential health impacts of some possible replacement chemicals but don’t say whether those alternatives have been commercially adopted. The studies also don’t report one-to-one substitutions of BPA for other bisphenol chemicals, such as BPS, which is widely used to coat receipt paper and which can disrupt hormones. Biomonitoring data analyzed by academic researchers and government agencies show decreases in human exposure to BPA, and increases in exposure to other bisphenols, but again, can’t say whether that trend is due to replacement of BPA in cans with other bisphenols.
In 2015, EWG published results of a survey of canned foods, revealing limited information on BPA substitutes. Since then, other public health groups have tried to pinpoint where BPA is still being used and the specific replacement chemicals.
A 2016 investigation by six nonprofit groups[i] – “Buyer Beware: Toxic BPA and regrettable substitutes in the linings of canned food” – analyzed nearly 200 food cans purchased at locations across the U.S. and Canada. Analysis with an infrared spectrometer identified BPA-based epoxy resins in 67 percent of the samples. The tests also identified four major alternative coating types: acrylic resins, oleoresins, polyester resins, and PVC, or polyvinyl chloride-based, resins. Many cans contained a combination of these coating materials.
In 2017, the Center for Environmental Health, or CEH, also used infrared spectroscopy to test more than 250 canned foods from across the nation for BPA. CEH also found the chemical was still commonplace, with 38 percent of the cans containing BPA-based linings. What’s more, CEH’s second round of testing found a huge disparity in foods purchased in ethnic grocery stores, with BPA in more than 90 percent of can linings. But by 2019, follow-up tests found that 96 percent of all cans were BPA-free.
But concerns remain, because too much information about the substitutes is hidden.
To make can coatings effective barriers between the food and the metal, polymers of different chains and chemistries are cross-linked together. Cross-linker agents commonly include formaldehyde, a known human carcinogen, but these agents don’t have to be disclosed – nor do other additives or production materials. In fact, the Food and Drug Administration doesn’t require anything about the linings to be labeled, even though a percentage of chemicals in the coatings can contaminate the food.
How do the hazards of the major alternatives stack up?
Acrylic resins have biodegradability and environmental toxicity concerns. Thirty-nine percent of the acrylic linings detected in the Buyer Beware investigation included polystyrene, which is derived from styrene, a possible human carcinogen and endocrine disruptor.
Polyesters may have less potential for direct human harm than other alternatives. However, this group of chemicals is toxic to aquatic life and can persist in the environment for many years.
PVC is a notoriously toxic chemical created from vinyl chloride, a known human carcinogen. The Buyer Beware coalition and CEH both found PVC-based resin was a popular alternative, discovering it in 25 percent and 19 percent of the cans, respectively.
Whole or partially plant-based oleoresins are commonly derived from trees and are often marketed as safer options. However, little is publicly known about how oleoresin mixtures are typically formulated.
Limit Your Exposure to BPA and Its Regrettable Substitutes
Until we can be sure that all manufacturers have transitioned away from BPA-based linings and that alternatives have been thoroughly assessed for safety, be wary of purchasing canned foods.
Some manufacturers label their cans “BPA free” but most don’t disclose the replacement chemicals. Even when they do, the complete lining composition is typically withheld. Can lining formulas may contain a dozen or more different chemicals among the array of food contact materials granted for use by the FDA.
We call on food companies and retailers to label the complete set of chemicals in their linings. They should also work with coating suppliers and the rest of the canned food supply chain to publish the results of private safety and exposure assessments for substitutes.
Tips for Avoiding BPA and Toxic Alternatives
When choosing canned goods, contact the company to ask whether it still uses BPA. If not, ask for details about the replacement – what it is, its safety profile and when the switch was made. Every can is stamped with a code that corresponds to its production date. Ask the company which codes indicate that a canned item was manufactured after the BPA phaseout.
Avoid canned beverages, as it is unclear how widely they still use BPA.
Whenever possible, substitute fresh, frozen or dried food for canned.
Limit how many packaged and processed foods you eat, in general. BPA may be found in more than just canned foods – for instance, in the lids of foods and beverages packaged in glass jars and bottles, aerosol cans for whipped toppings and nonstick sprays, tins of cooking oil and aluminum beverage cans.
In California, look for Proposition 65 warnings indicating the possible presence of BPA. Companies are required to provide either label or shelf sign warnings for products that contain BPA at concentrations above a “safe harbor level” or to justify their decision not to provide a warning.
[i] Breast Cancer Prevention Partners, Campaign for Healthier Solutions, Clean Production Action; Ecology Center, Environmental Defence (Canada) and Safer Chemicals, Healthy Families’ Mind the Store campaign.


environmentalworkinggroupewg--2020-11-07--Biden-Harris Victory Brings Historic Opportunity for Public Health, Racial Justice, Climate Change a

Biden-Harris Victory Brings Historic Opportunity for Public Health, Racial Justice, Climate Change and Clean Energy

WASHINGTON – The election of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris is not only a repudiation of President Trump , it is also a historic opportunity for the nation to advance the health , safety and equity of all Americans .
The following is a statement from EWG co-founder and President Ken Cook .
EWG congratulates President-elect Biden and Vice President-elect Harris on their victory and the historic elevation of a Black woman to the nation ’ s second-highest office .
While millions of Americans and billions around the world celebrate this moment , it also opens a game-changing path forward @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have a president and vice president who are ready for the enormous challenges the country faces and will work hard to meet them , not spend each day making them worse .
During the campaign , the Biden-Harris team laid out a bold agenda to get the pandemic under control , address systemic racism , tackle the climate crisis , protect the environmental health of Americans from toxic chemicals like PFAS , and aggressively transition the country to clean energy .
EWG wholeheartedly supports these goals and will work vigorously to help achieve @ @ @ @ @ @ @ – his assault on public health , science , and environmental protection , giving voice to racists and white supremacists , eroding confidence in the institutions that help Americans lead better lives – is immense , and will not be easily or quickly repaired .
Donald Trump will leave the White House , but the toxic dregs of Trumpism will linger .
A linchpin of restoring faith in government must be the rebuilding of essential federal agencies like the Environmental Protection Agency , Food and Drug Administration and the Centers for Disease Control @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , facts and reason must again be heard and heeded as the Biden-Harris administration fights to reduce exposure to toxic chemicals in our food , water , air and everyday products .
Equity , justice and an end to structural racism must be first principles .
Leading America out of the wreckage Trump leaves behind is a formidable challenge for President-elect Biden and Vice President-elect Harris .
And they can ’ t do it alone .
They need the support of all Americans – not only those who voted for them , but @ @ @ @ @ @ @ strong , prosperous , just , safe and healthy nation .
We will not agree with everything they do but will engage in honest debate and advocacy to hold them to their promises .
Any assessment of this election ’ s importance to public health and environmental protection must also be centered on the reality that the outcome was determined , overwhelmingly , by the votes of Black women and men whose communities continue to suffer disproportionately from a long and disgraceful legacy of environmental racism .
We stand as allies to leaders @ @ @ @ @ @ @ expect the election of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris will mark a new era of common resolve to eliminate the racial injustices of toxic pollution , and advance the equal opportunity of all to enjoy the benefits of a clean and healthy environment .

WASHINGTON – The election of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris is not only a repudiation of President Trump, it is also a historic opportunity for the nation to advance the health, safety and equity of all Americans.
The following is a statement from EWG co-founder and President Ken Cook.
EWG congratulates President-elect Biden and Vice President-elect Harris on their victory and the historic elevation of a Black woman to the nation’s second-highest office.
While millions of Americans and billions around the world celebrate this moment, it also opens a game-changing path forward. On January 20, we will have a president and vice president who are ready for the enormous challenges the country faces and will work hard to meet them, not spend each day making them worse.
During the campaign, the Biden-Harris team laid out a bold agenda to get the pandemic under control, address systemic racism, tackle the climate crisis, protect the environmental health of Americans from toxic chemicals like PFAS, and aggressively transition the country to clean energy. EWG wholeheartedly supports these goals and will work vigorously to help achieve them.
The damage Trump has done – his assault on public health, science, and environmental protection, giving voice to racists and white supremacists, eroding confidence in the institutions that help Americans lead better lives – is immense, and will not be easily or quickly repaired. Donald Trump will leave the White House, but the toxic dregs of Trumpism will linger.
A linchpin of restoring faith in government must be the rebuilding of essential federal agencies like the Environmental Protection Agency, Food and Drug Administration and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The voices of science, facts and reason must again be heard and heeded as the Biden-Harris administration fights to reduce exposure to toxic chemicals in our food, water, air and everyday products. Equity, justice and an end to structural racism must be first principles.
Leading America out of the wreckage Trump leaves behind is a formidable challenge for President-elect Biden and Vice President-elect Harris. And they can’t do it alone. They need the support of all Americans – not only those who voted for them, but everyone who shares the vision of a strong, prosperous, just, safe and healthy nation. We will not agree with everything they do but will engage in honest debate and advocacy to hold them to their promises.
Any assessment of this election’s importance to public health and environmental protection must also be centered on the reality that the outcome was determined, overwhelmingly, by the votes of Black women and men whose communities continue to suffer disproportionately from a long and disgraceful legacy of environmental racism. We stand as allies to leaders in the environmental justice movement who rightfully expect the election of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris will mark a new era of common resolve to eliminate the racial injustices of toxic pollution, and advance the equal opportunity of all to enjoy the benefits of a clean and healthy environment.


environmentalworkinggroupewg--2020-11-09--How Will the Biden Administration Tackle ‘Forever Chemicals’?

No candidate for president has ever pledged to make the toxic “ forever chemicals ” known as PFAS a priority – until now .
In his environmental justice plan , President-elect Joe Biden pledged to set enforceable limits for PFAS in drinking water and to designate PFAS as a hazardous substance under the Superfund cleanup law .
PFAS chemicals are building up in the blood of every American , posing the risk of serious health problems .
PFAS makes vaccines less effective and are linked to cancer , harm to the reproductive system and other health hazards .
More than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and eating food contaminated with PFAS .
Nevertheless , the Environmental Protection Agency , Food and Drug Administration and Defense Department have for decades failed to address the chemicals ’ health risks .
There are no federal limits on PFAS releases and uses and no requirements to clean up PFAS pollution .
Setting a national drinking water standard for PFAS under the federal Safe Drinking Water would have a huge impact on public health .
Right now , only a few states require drinking water utilities to meet tough standards for PFAS in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ would apply to all utilities would dramatically reduce our overall exposure to PFAS .
Designating PFAS as “ hazardous substances ” under Superfund would also be historic .
By doing so , the Biden-Harris administration would not only kick-start the cleanup process but also require polluters to pay their fair share of cleanup costs .
But that ’ s not all the Biden team has pledged .
The president-elect also pledged to prioritize PFAS substitutes in the marketplace .
That means Biden could direct the EPA and the FDA to quickly phase out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , cosmetics , sunscreens and other everyday products .
The Biden team will have other tools at its disposal .
The president-elect could quickly restrict industrial discharges of PFAS into the air and water by using the tools provided by the Clean Air Act and the Clean Water Act , and expand reporting of these releases through the Toxic Release Inventory .
Right now , more than 2,500 manufacturers are thought to be releasing PFAS with no limits .
The Biden-Harris administration can also direct the Defense Department to accelerate efforts to end @ @ @ @ @ @ @ impose a moratorium on the incineration of remaining stocks of PFAS foam , and accelerate PFAS cleanup at military installations .
More than 300 military installations are known to be contaminated with PFAS .
No candidates have ever pledged to do as much to address America ’ s environmental challenges as Joe Biden and Kamala Harris .
And that is especially the case for PFAS pollution .

No candidate for president has ever pledged to make the toxic “forever chemicals” known as PFAS a priority – until now.
In his environmental justice plan, President-elect Joe Biden pledged to set enforceable limits for PFAS in drinking water and to designate PFAS as a hazardous substance under the Superfund cleanup law.
Here’s why that matters.
PFAS chemicals are building up in the blood of every American, posing the risk of serious health problems. PFAS makes vaccines less effective and are linked to cancer, harm to the reproductive system and other health hazards.
More than 200 million Americans are likely drinking water and eating food contaminated with PFAS. Nevertheless, the Environmental Protection Agency, Food and Drug Administration and Defense Department have for decades failed to address the chemicals’ health risks. There are no federal limits on PFAS releases and uses and no requirements to clean up PFAS pollution.
Setting a national drinking water standard for PFAS under the federal Safe Drinking Water would have a huge impact on public health. Right now, only a few states require drinking water utilities to meet tough standards for PFAS in tap water. A national standard that would apply to all utilities would dramatically reduce our overall exposure to PFAS.
Designating PFAS as “hazardous substances” under Superfund would also be historic. By doing so, the Biden-Harris administration would not only kick-start the cleanup process but also require polluters to pay their fair share of cleanup costs.
But that’s not all the Biden team has pledged. The president-elect also pledged to prioritize PFAS substitutes in the marketplace. That means Biden could direct the EPA and the FDA to quickly phase out non-essential uses of PFAS in food packaging, cosmetics, sunscreens and other everyday products.
The Biden team will have other tools at its disposal. The president-elect could quickly restrict industrial discharges of PFAS into the air and water by using the tools provided by the Clean Air Act and the Clean Water Act, and expand reporting of these releases through the Toxic Release Inventory. Right now, more than 2,500 manufacturers are thought to be releasing PFAS with no limits.
The Biden-Harris administration can also direct the Defense Department to accelerate efforts to end the use of PFAS-based firefighting foam, impose a moratorium on the incineration of remaining stocks of PFAS foam, and accelerate PFAS cleanup at military installations. More than 300 military installations are known to be contaminated with PFAS.
No candidates have ever pledged to do as much to address America’s environmental challenges as Joe Biden and Kamala Harris. And that is especially the case for PFAS pollution.


environmentalworkinggroupewg--2020-11-12--How Can the Biden Administration Fix America’s Broken Food System?

The staggering number of food and farm workers who have died from Covid-19 has laid bare the Trump administration ’ s disastrous policies on food and farm issues .
President Trump ’ s failure to provide these workers with protections from the coronavirus was the latest bad decision that made our food and the people who produce it less safe , increased hunger , increased the health care costs caused by poor diets and the pollution caused by farms , and made it harder for all Americans to decide how to feed their families .
Now President-elect Biden has a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s what should be on the menu .
First , Biden should make it a priority to end hunger .
As a result of the pandemic , millions more are facing hunger , including one in five children .
The Trump administration has actually been undermining programs to alleviate hunger .
Last year , the Department of Agriculture proposed to kick nearly 700,000 people out of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program , or SNAP , as well as implementing other rules designed to reduce participation in the program , commonly known as food @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the administration went to court to block pandemic food aid for the poor .
Biden has pledged to increase the standard SNAP benefit by 15 percent , supports free school meals and wants to rescind rules that limit participation in anti-hunger programs .
But increasing SNAP benefits and participation alone will not end hunger .
A Biden administration must also address income and housing challenges .
Second , Biden should make it a priority to protect food and farm workers from Covid-19 .
According to the Food and Environmental Reporting Network , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gotten sick and 327 have died .
Biden has said , “ [ N ] o worker ’ s life is worth me getting a cheaper hamburger , ” and pledged to support policies that protect workers from Covid-19 , expand their ability to organize , and provide a $ 15 minimum wage .
To make good on his pledge to protect workers threatened by Covid-19 , the Occupational Safety and Health Administration , or OSHA , must quickly require basic personal protections for workers , boost enforcement and ensure that workers have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and farm workers get sick from Covid-19 , they should receive sick pay so they can stay home .
And when they take risks to keep us fed , those risks should be rewarded through premium pay .
Third , Biden should make it a priority to support healthy diets .
Poor diet is now the leading cause of Americans ’ death , and obesity rates continue to climb , increasing health care costs .
The diseases caused by poor diets – such as diabetes , hypertension and cardiovascular disease – have significantly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ As a candidate , Biden has not had much to say about diet .
But food leaders have had a lot to say about steps we can take to support healthy diets .
And Vice President-elect Kamala Harris has been an outspoken supporter of food policy reforms designed to improve our health .
For starters , a Biden-Harris administration should immediately restore tough standards for food sold in schools .
Fourth , Biden should revamp Trump ’ s farmer bailout programs to help farmers in real need and restore rules that ensure a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s policies have been a disaster for farmers .
His trade war closed markets that had taken decades to open .
His bailouts have favored the wealthiest farmers at the expense of family farms , and rules designed to ensure that farmers get a fair price have been shelved .
His inhumane immigration policies have created labor shortages that have harmed both farmers and food manufacturers .
The modest tweaks to ethanol programs Biden has proposed won ’ t make a difference to most farmers .
His agriculture secretary must rescind and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s Covid-19 response programs to help farmers facing economic ruin and reform other farm subsidy programs to level the playing field for family farmers .
But that ’ s not all .
President-elect Biden should also make good on his plan to address long-standing and ongoing discrimination against Black farmers .
Farm subsidy reform alone will not be enough to address the long legacy of racial discrimination in farm programs .
We must also transform the culture at the USDA , provide land and credit to Black farmers and lift the veil of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ farm subsidies .
Fifth , Biden should make it a priority to keep our food safe .
Contaminated food kills more than 3,000 Americans a year , and a recent audit shows no progress is being made to reduce foodborne illness .
But Trump ’ s Department of Agriculture eliminated a requirement to clean hog carcasses , increased line speeds at meat-processing plants and deregulated food safety inspections .
His Environmental Protection Agency reversed a ban on chlorpyrifos , a pesticide linked to brain damage in children , and extended the life of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ should immediately restore the ban on chlorpyrifos and reverse other Trump administration decisions that fail to protect consumers and farmworkers from pesticides .
But the Biden-Harris administration should go further and fix our broken system for reviewing the safety of pesticides and other chemicals in food .
We must also do much more to reduce foodborne illness .
We must not only require growers to test irrigation water for pathogens but also combat the growing threat of pathogens in meat and poultry .
We must address these risks where they start – in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over much of farm country .
Sixth , the new agriculture secretary should immediately declare a climate emergency and use the resources of the Commodity Credit Corporation to reward farmers who reduce emissions and permanently store carbon in the ground .
Farmers can play a much bigger role in efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions .
Historic storms have placed farmers on the front lines in the fight against the climate crisis , and legislators have proposed bold ideas to reward farmers who take meaningful and measurable steps to address it .
Expanding @ @ @ @ @ @ @ make the climate crisis a top priority and linking farm subsidies to a basic standard of environmental care will also help keep our drinking water clean and safe .
The Covid-19 crisis has shined a spotlight on Trump ’ s food and farm policy failures .
Workers are getting sick , and our food supply chains are being tested .
Trump ’ s policy failures have also made more consumers sick and pushed many farmers to the brink of financial ruin .
A Biden-Harris administration can – and should – do better .

The staggering number of food and farm workers who have died from Covid-19 has laid bare the Trump administration’s disastrous policies on food and farm issues.
President Trump’s failure to provide these workers with protections from the coronavirus was the latest bad decision that made our food and the people who produce it less safe, increased hunger, increased the health care costs caused by poor diets and the pollution caused by farms, and made it harder for all Americans to decide how to feed their families.
Now President-elect Biden has a chance to change course. Here’s what should be on the menu.
First, Biden should make it a priority to end hunger. As a result of the pandemic, millions more are facing hunger, including one in five children.
The Trump administration has actually been undermining programs to alleviate hunger. Last year, the Department of Agriculture proposed to kick nearly 700,000 people out of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, as well as implementing other rules designed to reduce participation in the program, commonly known as food stamps. Just weeks before the election, the administration went to court to block pandemic food aid for the poor.
Biden has pledged to increase the standard SNAP benefit by 15 percent, supports free school meals and wants to rescind rules that limit participation in anti-hunger programs. But increasing SNAP benefits and participation alone will not end hunger. A Biden administration must also address income and housing challenges.
Second, Biden should make it a priority to protect food and farm workers from Covid-19. According to the Food and Environmental Reporting Network, at least 72,000 of these workers have gotten sick and 327 have died.
Biden has said, “[N]o worker’s life is worth me getting a cheaper hamburger,” and pledged to support policies that protect workers from Covid-19, expand their ability to organize, and provide a $15 minimum wage. To make good on his pledge to protect workers threatened by Covid-19, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, or OSHA, must quickly require basic personal protections for workers, boost enforcement and ensure that workers have safe housing and transportation. When food and farm workers get sick from Covid-19, they should receive sick pay so they can stay home. And when they take risks to keep us fed, those risks should be rewarded through premium pay.
Third, Biden should make it a priority to support healthy diets.
Poor diet is now the leading cause of Americans’ death, and obesity rates continue to climb, increasing health care costs. The diseases caused by poor diets – such as diabetes, hypertension and cardiovascular disease – have significantly increased the risks posed by Covid-19.
As a candidate, Biden has not had much to say about diet. But food leaders have had a lot to say about steps we can take to support healthy diets. And Vice President-elect Kamala Harris has been an outspoken supporter of food policy reforms designed to improve our health. For starters, a Biden-Harris administration should immediately restore tough standards for food sold in schools.
Fourth, Biden should revamp Trump’s farmer bailout programs to help farmers in real need and restore rules that ensure a farmer gets a fair price.
Trump’s policies have been a disaster for farmers. His trade war closed markets that had taken decades to open. His bailouts have favored the wealthiest farmers at the expense of family farms, and rules designed to ensure that farmers get a fair price have been shelved. His inhumane immigration policies have created labor shortages that have harmed both farmers and food manufacturers.
The modest tweaks to ethanol programs Biden has proposed won’t make a difference to most farmers. His agriculture secretary must rescind and rewrite the rules for the USDA’s Covid-19 response programs to help farmers facing economic ruin and reform other farm subsidy programs to level the playing field for family farmers.
But that’s not all. President-elect Biden should also make good on his plan to address long-standing and ongoing discrimination against Black farmers. Farm subsidy reform alone will not be enough to address the long legacy of racial discrimination in farm programs. We must also transform the culture at the USDA, provide land and credit to Black farmers and lift the veil of secrecy that hides the racial makeup of farm subsidies.
Fifth, Biden should make it a priority to keep our food safe.
Contaminated food kills more than 3,000 Americans a year, and a recent audit shows no progress is being made to reduce foodborne illness. But Trump’s Department of Agriculture eliminated a requirement to clean hog carcasses, increased line speeds at meat-processing plants and deregulated food safety inspections. His Environmental Protection Agency reversed a ban on chlorpyrifos, a pesticide linked to brain damage in children, and extended the life of dicamba, another toxic pesticide.
Biden should immediately restore the ban on chlorpyrifos and reverse other Trump administration decisions that fail to protect consumers and farmworkers from pesticides. But the Biden-Harris administration should go further and fix our broken system for reviewing the safety of pesticides and other chemicals in food.
We must also do much more to reduce foodborne illness. We must not only require growers to test irrigation water for pathogens but also combat the growing threat of pathogens in meat and poultry. We must address these risks where they start – in the massive confined feedlots that have taken over much of farm country.
Sixth, the new agriculture secretary should immediately declare a climate emergency and use the resources of the Commodity Credit Corporation to reward farmers who reduce emissions and permanently store carbon in the ground.
Farmers can play a much bigger role in efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Historic storms have placed farmers on the front lines in the fight against the climate crisis, and legislators have proposed bold ideas to reward farmers who take meaningful and measurable steps to address it. Expanding and reforming voluntary farm stewardship programs to make the climate crisis a top priority and linking farm subsidies to a basic standard of environmental care will also help keep our drinking water clean and safe.
The Covid-19 crisis has shined a spotlight on Trump’s food and farm policy failures. Workers are getting sick, and our food supply chains are being tested. Trump’s policy failures have also made more consumers sick and pushed many farmers to the brink of financial ruin. A Biden-Harris administration can – and should – do better.