Scientists have found at least 870 different chemical ingredients that have the potential to affect the hormone systems of humans, fish and wildlife. These chemicals are found in many of the consumer products used in households every day. EcoSuperior is launching a new educational program to help people understand the impact of hormone disruptors on human health and on the environment. The program will explain how to reduce exposure to hormone disrupting chemicals in cleaning products, cosmetics and personal care items, plastics, upholstery foam and even some foods. Reducing personal exposure to these every day sources of hormone disruptors also reduces their release into the environment, especially waterways.
The non-profit organization is working with an advisory committee from the health, education and environment sectors to develop resources for the community. Although adults may show no ill effects from exposure to hormone disruptors, they can pass contaminants on to their babies during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The wide range of reproductive, developmental, growth and behavioural issues can last a lifetime.
“There are steps you can take to reduce your exposures,” says EcoSuperior Program Coordinator Lucie Lavoie. “With a bit of knowledge, you can make healthier choices when purchasing products. For example, many canned foods contain hormone disruptors in the plastic lining of the can, so it’s wise to choose fresh or frozen foods as often as possible.”
EcoSuperior has a new web page at www.ecosuperior.org and a series of fact sheets to help the public learn more about the issue. Coming up Wednesday, Feb. 13, EcoSuperior and the Environmental Film Network present the film “Unacceptable Levels” at the Paramount Theatre at 7:30 pm. The film will be followed by a discussion with local experts.
EcoSuperior will also be distributing information at a booth at the Central Canada Outdoor show. A Science Café planned in conjunction with Science North on Feb. 25 at Gargoyles will feature Mark McMaster, an Environment Canada research scientist, who will also be presenting a lecture at Lakehead University. Other events include:
March 2- Display at the Women’s Expo to provide tips on reducing exposure to hormone disruptors.
March 7- Public Presentation Toxic Chemicals: Reduce the Risk, Waverley Library Auditorium, 7pm.
For more information, contact Lucie Lavoie, Project Coordinator, at 624-2143 or firstname.lastname@example.org