September 30, 2004
Safe Cosmetics
September 24, 2004 the Safe Cosmetics Campaign placed an ad in USA Today challenging cosmetic companies to come clean about whether they plan to remove toxic chemicals that are banned in the E.U. from products sold on American shelves.
Phthalates DBP and DEHP are known or highly suspected of causing cancer, impaired fertility or birth defects and are used in some fragrance, hair spray and nail polish. Product tests show that L'Oreal, Revlon, and Unilever make products with phthalates.
Posted by BETH at
03:46 PM
September 09, 2004
New Study shows Air Pollution causes significant damage to children's lungs
The first long-term study on air pollution's impact on children was released today. It shows significant damage in the lungs of children who live in polluted areas. Such children had similar lung capacities as those who live with a parent that smokes. Dr. James Gauderman of the University of Southern California, who conducted the study, said:
"This is some of the most convincing evidence that air pollution has chronic effects. We see the effects in all kids. And it's an unavoidable exposure. It's not like smoking, where you can advise people to stop."
He cited car exhaust as the number one source of air pollution. This study demonstrates the need for cleaner cars that will improve public health and reduce global warming.
Posted by MICHAEL at
11:31 AM
September 08, 2004
Lexus hybrid SUV orders set record
Miguel Lianos reported today that the 2006 Lexus RX 400h hybrid SUV sold significantly more pre-launch orders than any vehicle in Lexus's entire 15-year history. As of August 31st, over 9000 "pre-sold" orders had been placed.
Despite the overwhelming response and apparent consumer demand, Lexus hasn't said how many 400hs it plans to manufacture monthly, and industry watchers caution it may take some time before Lexus can deliver then to consumers.
Posted by BETH at
01:53 PM
September 01, 2004
AEP is Cleaning Up?
I have on more than one occasion blogged the environmental downfalls of American Electric Power Co. (AEP). In an attempt to green its poor environmental record, Reuters News Service reported that American Electric Power Co. is planning to spend $1.6 billion to build a power plant using a technology that reduces emissions. This technology pulverizes coal into gas before burning, consequentially reducing the levels of harmful emissions emitted.
Unfortunately there is no such thing as clean coal. Although Clean Coal Technology (CCT) has helped reduce smokestack emissions, CCT power plants remain very dirty emitting up to seven times more nitrogen oxide than natural gas - fired plants. No other source of pollution causes as many adverse health impacts as coal-burning power plants.
Posted by BETH at
05:03 PM
