Two things: we want to keep you in the loop, and we’re trying something new. So, be on the lookout for short, sweet, weekly e-news — where we’ll be highlighting just two things of note.
Stay informed, stay connected. Two things!
EPA Announces Health Advisory for PFAS Exposure
Recently, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced it is setting acceptable levels for exposure to certain PFAS toxic chemicals (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances) at near zero. The levels are for a “health advisory” — which means public drinking water supplies will be not yet be required to meet these standards. However, EPA’s acknowledgment that exposure to virtually any level of certain PFAS chemicals is dangerous is a major step forward. EPA’s previous health advisories for PFOA and PFOS, two among thousands of PFAS chemicals, were 100 times greater than these levels.
Can Human Urine Save Farming? Meet the Peecyclers
Very exciting to see one of our Small Grants for Smart Growth grantees, Rich Earth Institute, recognized for their work recycling human urine for agricultural fertilizer from some 200 volunteers in Vermont for research and application on a handful of local farms, otherwise known as peecycling. From a recent article in the New York Times:
“Peecyclers in Vermont describe a personal benefit from their work: A sense of gratification thinking about their own body’s nutrients helping to heal, instead of hurt, the earth. ‘Hashtag PeeTheChange,’ quipped Julia Cavicchi, who directs education at the Rich Earth Institute. ‘Puns aren’t the only reason I’m in this field,’ she added, ‘but it’s definitely a perk.’”