I keep hearing about "bad" plastics. Creepy toxic chemicals of unpronounceable words like phthalates and bisphenol-A that leach into food or drink, especially when heated in a microwave or put in a freezer. But even surface scratches in sippy cups and toys can undermine the safety of your family.
What I understand from the science is that these unpronounceable toxics that can end up in our food and drink can lead to elevated estrogen levels. So does what does that mean for my boys? And my girls? ......I can't even go there! Where are these toxic substances found and how can I protect my toddlers from them?
Where are these substances found? In my toddler's sippy cups! And baby bottles! And who knows where else?
Your bottled water comes from pure mountain springs, right? Or a glacier, or pristine forest, untouched by human hands? More than half of all Americans drink bottled water; a third of us drink it regularly. And while you might not entirely believe the marketing hype, you kind of think you’re getting something better than what comes out of the tap.
But that’s not necessarily true.
NRDC conducted a four-year study of the bottled water industry, and a review of available information on bottled water and its sources. You might be surprised...
Could swimming at your local beach be hazardous to your health? Swimming in contaminated water can cause a range of diseases, including rashes, pinkeye, ear infections and respiratory ailments. NRDC's annual survey of beachwater quality found that the water at American beaches was unsafe for swimming a record number of days last year.
Across the country, there were more than 25,000 days of closings and advisories in 2006 at ocean, bay and Great Lakes beaches. But even beaches that meet federal health standards aren't necessarily safe because the EPA's outdated standards don't identify all of the types of contamination that can make people sick.
Slathering on the 45 SPF sunscreen this summer may not be enough to protect your skin and health. Not all sunscreens are as effective or safe as they seem and some sunscreens contain untested, potentially toxic ingredients. Looking at the label may not help -- a 45 SPF sunscreen may not offer any protection against skin-damaging UVA rays. And some new sunscreens contain nano particles, teeny tiny particles that are more easily absorbed by the skin and the body. But you won't find nano materials listed on the label either. Learn how to keep that healthy glow by choosing a safer, more effective sunscreen.
Whether it's the healthy glow of sun-kissed cheeks or a long-awaited holiday, getting on the beach and in the sun is often the first order of summer. But did you know that there are hidden environmental health threats on the sand and in the surf?
From seafood to beach water quality, here's what you need to know to protect your family's health this summer. And while you are keeping your family safe, NRDC is working to keep environmental pollution off your coasts and out of your water so you can enjoy the best summer has to offer.
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