The Issue of Plastics

Plastic seems like an unavoidable part of modern life in the U.S. Waste, and how we choose to handle it, affects our world's environment. Because of the widespread use of plastics, experts are taking a closer look at the possible health risks associated with them. Extensive research has been conducted on two types of harmful chemicals in plastics, phthalates, and bisphenol-A (BPAs). In response to the extensive research on BPAs that have been published, a lot of products that historically contained BPAs, no longer contain the chemical. Early studies about the health effects of chemicals from plastics show that they may affect the:

1. Brain
   

2. Endocrine system (the system that controls hormones, or the chemicals that regulate metabolism)
   

3. Immune system (the system that helps keep you from getting sick)
   

4. Reproductive systems (the male and female systems that allow us to have babies)

Some plastic containers can release chemicals into the things they’re holding — like food and drinks. When people eat or drink what was in the container, they can be exposed to (come in contact with) the chemicals in the plastic. This happens most often if the food or drinks are heated in plastic containers. Plastics are not only an issue for our health, but also for the health of plants and animals everywhere. Approximately 50 percent of our plastic waste goes to landfills (where it will sit for thousands of years due to limited oxygen and lack of microorganisms to break it down). The remaining 45 percent ends up as litter in the environment where it ultimately washes out to sea, damaging marine ecosystems and entering the food chain. For example, 42% of the rivers tested in America turned up positive for Bisphenol-A or BPA. (https://www.smallfootprintfamily.com/avoiding-toxins-in-plastic) What can you do to reduce your consumption of plastic for the sake of your health and the environment?

1. Change your diet and opt for foods that are not packaged in plastic, for example, buy eggs that come in cardboard packaging vs. Plastic.
   

2. Store, reheat or freeze your leftovers in glass containers. Always remember to bring a stainless steel or glass water bottle with you as well!
   

3. Bring your own reusable produce bags to the grocery store.
   

4. Avoid disposable plastic or polystyrene dishes and utensils. There are some great reusable and affordable bamboo travel utensils on the market!
   

5. Use cloth diapers! In the past, many people have avoided using cloth diapers because they can be tricky to use, but there are some affordable ones you can buy that have streamlined the process!
   

6. Replace your school-age child’s plastic lunchbox with a cloth or stainless steel one.

Children's Environmental Health Day

Thursday, October 8, 2020 is Children’s Environmental Health Day (CEH Day). The environment is an important but often overlooked factor that influences health and developmental outcomes, especially for children, who are particularly vulnerable to these hazards. In fact, the World Health Organization estimates that 34% of all children’s health issues are the result of modifiable environmental factors. We must consider environmental factors, such as air and water pollution, or toxic chemicals in consumer products because these can be modified and improved through policy measures, individual habits, community efforts, and business practices.

As with the coronavirus and so many current health crises, environmental factors are not equally distributed across race and income. Children and pregnant women from low-income communities, tribal communities, and communities of color are disproportionately exposed to these harmful toxicants, placing them at higher risk for illness and disability.

While there is an urgent need to put children and families back into the forefront of our nation’s actions regarding health and environment, we also have many children’s environmental health wins to celebrate this year. For instance, in April 2020, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) gave $697,000 in grants to assist Tennessee in identifying sources of lead in school and child care facility water. Then in July, Tennessee unanimously passed HB 2017, creating stronger rules for Lead-Free Schools. This year New Jersey applied new clean water protections to 600 miles of waterways, protecting kid’s physical, mental, and emotional health. New Jersey also became the first state to include climate change curriculum in schools.

We’re excited to celebrate these and other wins, but also to commemorate the large amount of work that is still required to protect children from environmental hazards. CEH Day is a platform for ALL of us advocating for clean air and water, safer food and products, and healthier places for children to live, learn, and play. It is a way to increase visibility, make some noise, educate decision-makers, and create some real change for children's health. There are lots of ways to get involved, no matter who you are. You can request proclamations from your mayor/governor declaring CEH a priority for your community. You can join the annual #CEHchat on Twitter (this year focuses on children’s health and climate change). Or you could attend or host an event like a stream cleanup, educational panel, letter-writing campaign, or virtual watch party.

Because of COVID-19, many of this year’s CEH Day activities are going virtual. The Children’s Environmental Health Network is working with advocates, scientists, grassroots organizers, and entertainers to put on a CEH Day Livestream. Tune in 8:30 am to 7:30 pm ET for educational panels, inspiring leaders,CEH Community produced segments focusing on pertinent public health issues, fun children's read- and sing-alongs, a sustainable children's' fashion show, and the 15th Annual Child Health Advocate Awards.

We must respect the interconnectedness of environmental and human health and prioritize the health of our planet so that our children and future generations have the healthiest possible start to life

I invite you to join me and help create a better, healthier future for our children on October 8th.

Summer & COVID-19

COVID-19 has completely reshaped daily life. While it may be tempting to begin resuming normal life as the summer months approach, it is necessary to take proper precautions and maintain safe social distancing even as parts of the country begin to reopen. There is still a lot of uncertainty at this time, so it is always better to stay on the safe side and err on the side of caution.

This doesn't, however, mean you can't enjoy outdoor summer activities. As of now, the CDC, recommends staying physically active. It's one of the best ways to keep your mind and body healthy. In many areas, people can visit parks, hike trails, or be in open spaces as a way to relieve stress, get some fresh air and vitamin D, stay active and safely connect with others.

It is important to follow the steps below to protect yourself and others from COVID-19:

DO Visit parks that are close to your home Prepare before you visit (this includes bringing facemasks, sanitizer, and any essentials you might need in the event of coming across other people) Stay at least 6 feet away from others (“social distancing”) and take other steps to prevent COVID-19 Play it safe around and in swimming pools. Keep space between yourself and others

DON’T Visit parks if you are sick or were recently exposed to COVID-19 Visit crowded parks Use playgrounds Participate in organized activities or sports

It is important to keep in mind that parks will only be open at the discretion of state and local authorities, so be sure to research if the park you're planning to visit will be open ahead of time.

National parks will be open on a park-by-park basis as well, so be sure to check the National Park Service website to determine whether the park you're planning to visit will be open.

Beaches and swimming areas will be open at the discretion of state and local authorities as well. You should also check ahead of time to see if visitor centers and bathroom facilities at these places will be available, so you can determine what you need to bring with you.

Swimming does carry some health risks. Visit CDC’s Healthy Swimming website for information to help you prevent illness and drowning, while having fun and enjoying the health benefits of swimming.

As we all are surely aware by now, be sure to STAY 6 FEET AWAY from others and to WASH YOUR HANDS OFTEN for 20 seconds with soap and water, and to cover your mouth if you cough or sneeze.

Also remember....

Avoid gathering with others outside of your household