Wednesday, February 23, 2011

Environmental Hazards that Lead to Chronic Illness

When we think of the causes of disease, we tend to think of viruses and bacteria. These are certainly responsible for many types of illness, but not all. Toxins in the environment – particularly substances that are released into the environment by human activity – can also cause illnesses ranging from mild irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat to symptoms of mesothelioma, an incurable cancer. The following substances are all naturally occurring, but our use of them has turned them into pollutants.

  • Asbestos
This thread-like mineral is extremely heat-resistant, a property which once made asbestos popular as an insulator and additive to materials that needed to be fireproof. It was particularly prevalent in factories and in the shipbuilding and construction industries, but before the 1980s, it was used to manufacture everything from roofing shingles to decorative plaster household appliances like popcorn poppers and hair dryers. Nowadays, it is well known that if asbestos fibers get into the air, they can lodge in the lungs and other body tissues, causing lung scarring, asbestosis, or mesothelioma. Mesothelioma symptoms can take between 20 and 50 years to surface after exposure, so the number of cases will likely continue to rise for years to come.

  • Lead
A soft, non-corrosive metal, lead has historically been used in applications varying from make-up to plumbing to paint to construction projects. For much of the twentieth century, it was also added to gasoline to prevent engine knocking, though this use was phased out beginning in the 1970s. When cars burned this gasoline, it would release tiny particles of lead into the surrounding air. Lead is also dangerous when ingested, and can damage nearly every organ system in the human body, particularly the nervous system. Lead poisoning is most serious in infants and children, whose nervous systems are still developing.

  • Benzene
Like lead, benzene was once used as an additive in gasoline to increase the octane rating. Its use in fuel is now limited, but it can still be found in many industrial solvents and as an ingredient in the manufacture of plastics, rubber, and certain dyes. Benzene is a known carcinogen, and has been strongly linked to the development of certain types of leukemia. As a pollutant, it is most commonly breathed in. If found in high concentrations, it can cause death in the short term. In lower concentrations, chronic exposure can result in damage to the bone marrow causing anemia, as well as excessive bleeding and a suppressed immune system.

It’s important to remember that “being green” is not just about environmental health; it’s about human health as well. Remaining aware of our use of natural resources – which are helpful, which are harmful – can benefit both people and the earth.

The above article is a guest post written by Krista Peterson.

Saturday, February 5, 2011

"Fuel", Great Documentary about America's Dependence on Oil

Eleven years in the making, FUEL is the in-depth personal journey of filmmaker and eco-evangelist Josh Ticknell, who takes us on a hip, fast-paced road trip into America's dependence on foreign oil. Combining a history lesson of the US auto and petroleum industries and interviews with a wide range of policy makers, educators, and activists such as Woody Harrelson, Sheryl Crow, Neil Young and Willie Nelson. Animated by powerful graphics, FUEL looks into our future offering hope via a wide-range of renewable energy and bio-fuels. Winner of the Sundance Audience Award.

I urge everyone to watch this great yet alarming documentary on our dependence on fuels and what alternatives are available for everyone of us to make a change. Similarly to the documentary "Who killed the Electric Car?", FUEL also highlights the power of the oil industry lobbies and all things that are just wrong in today's political landscape.

However, if people embrace biodiesel and other forms of sustainable energy, then only we can change the world. For more information on this documentary film, head to their official website which also links to their facebook, youtube, twitter and other social media profiles.


So how can I help?

There are many ways you can help. Below are a few examples:
-Reduce your energy consumption (use low-consumption light bulbs or other energy efficient houseware)
-Use public transports or walk/ride your bicycle to work
-Buy more locally grown food or locally produced items (this will reduce your carbon footprint but also help your local economy)
-Visit Repower America, supported by ex US President candidate Al Gore
-If you use your vehicle regularly and can afford to replace your vehicle or buy a new one, go for the electric or biodiesel powered option. You will save money in the long run, and it's a great way to reduce your environmental impact.
-Sharing is caring. Spread the word around you, educate your friends and family and every good thing will follow. This documentary film is a great first step.

Lastly, I want to finish by one of the quotes I read in this film. The quote is from Gandhi:
"When the people lead, the leaders will follow."
This really sums up the fact that the environmental revolution will start from the people, you and me, and not from multi-billion dollar profit making oil corporations.

 
© 2010 Poor Planet. All Rights Reserved
Design by psdvibe | Bloggerized By LawnyDesignz