January 2021 Spotlight
Every month, Clean and Healthy New York publishes a newsletter highlighting the latest science, policy developments, and media coverage that sheds light on the state of environmental health in America and abroad.
Recycling in America is a mess. A new bill here in NY could clean it up
The United States leads the world in how much garbage is created per person. Single-use plastics use has soared since the start of the pandemic. Legislation introduced by State Senator Todd Kaminsky and Assemblymember Steve Englebright would make manufacturers foot the bill instead of taxpayers and municipalities. Read more
DEC blocks popular pesticide using PFAS in containers
New York's Department of Environmental Conservation is blocking the use of Anvil 10+10 products statewide and launching an investigation after PFAS was discovered in its plastic containers. PFAS can cause thyroid disorders, cancers, and more. The company has ceased to use the plastic containers. Read more
Biden centers environmental justice in climate plan
The President directed agencies across the federal government to invest in low-income and minority communities that have traditionally borne the brunt of pollution. The move is warmly received from the environmental justice communities who have spent years in the wilderness. This is one among many early steps the administration has taken to address environmental issues. Read more
Biden signals a renewed federal interest in worker health
The President's executive order directs the Occupational Safety and Health Administration to update covid safety recommendations for businesses, review its enforcement efforts, and study whether an emergency temporary standard is necessary. Read more
Fire fighters go to war with their gear
The International Association of Fire Fighters, the nation's largest fire fighter's union, will vote this week on whether to run independent tests of PFAS and end sponsorships from equipment makers and the chemical industry. "We're exposed to these chemicals every day," said Captain Sean Mitchell, "and the more I looked into it, the more it felt like the only people who were saying these chemicals were safe were the people who make it." Read more
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