- June 1, 2018 Ecojustice
By Associate Gen Eiler
Since I began taking steps to learn more and do more about protecting the environment, my passion for it has only increased. The more passion I feel to educate others and connect them to resources that make that possible, the more excited I get.
I find it very fulfilling to be participating in the larger community of protectors of the environment. Here are some of the resources I am eager to share with you.
The Environmental Working Group (EWG) is a non-profit dedicated to protecting human health and the environment. Through research and education, EWG is empowering consumers to make more informed decisions about the products they buy and the companies they support. Consumer pressure works. Some companies are giving up potentially dangerous chemical ingredients in their products and improving their practices.
The EWG website—ewg.org—addresses issues related to cosmetics, food, water, energy and more. Ratings for more than 120,000 food and personal care products are at your fingertips by downloading their app at ewg.org/apps. Scan a product, review its rating and pick the better choice.
Safer Choice is the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) label for safer chemical-based products. Every chemical in a Safer Choice-labeled product is evaluated through the EPA’s rigorous scientific process. Only the safest ingredients are allowed. Visit their website FAQs page for an all-encompassing coverage of environmental topics: www.epa.gov/saferchoice/frequently-asked-questions-safer-choice.
Household Hazardous Waste (HHW): The EPA considers some leftover household products that can catch fire, react, or explode under certain circumstances, or that are corrosive or toxic as household hazardous waste. Products such as paints, cleaners, oils, batteries, and pesticides can contain hazardous ingredients. Improper disposal of HHW can include pouring them down the drain, on the ground, into storm sewers, or, in some cases, putting them out with the regular trash.
Certain types of HHW have the potential to cause physical injury to sanitation workers or contaminate wastewater treatment systems if poured down drains or toilets. Check to learn of a facility in your area that accepts HHW at epa.gov/hw/household-hazardous-waste-hhw.
Melaleuca: The Wellness Company provides safe, effective products with no chlorine bleach, ammonia or toxic chemicals. Their cleaning and laundry products combine leading-edge technology and plant-derived, biodegradable ingredients. For access to their products, call 1-800-522-3172 to find someone in your area. My sister, S. Kathy Eiler and I are very pleased with the Melaleuca products we use faithfully. Learn more at melaleuca.com.
Nano Towels use a revolutionary new fabric technology that cleans virtually anything with only water. They replace expensive paper towels and toxic cleaners. Each towel lasts for 300-400 uses. Those who suffer chemical cleaning-related sensitivities like skin problems and/or respiratory issues will benefit from the switch to the Nano towel’s non-chemical alternative product. Nano towels and other cleaning items made with the same fabric technology are available at amazon.com.
Seventh Generation has been creating powerful plant-based solutions for home and family for 28 years. Their products contain no synthetic fragrances, dyes, phosphates or triclosan. They are available in some grocery stores.
Learn more about how Gen helps to protect the environment through recycling in the spring issue of our Connections magazine.