NEW REPORTAdvancing Health and Equity Through Better Building Products
PollutionAssessing Benefits and Risks of Incorporating Plastic Waste in Construction Materials
Report
Plastic pollution and climate change are interconnected threats that drive global social injustice, with the construction industry being a significant contributor due to its prolific use of plastics.
Recently, efforts to recycle or downcycle plastics into building materials have accelerated, leading to incorporation of plastic waste into materials such as composite asphalt-plastic roads, plastic adhesives, and plastic-concrete. However, research suggests these practices may exacerbate environmental, health, and social problems, acting as “greenwashing” that distracts from real solutions. This mini review evaluates the impacts of using plastic waste in construction materials and calls for caution and further research before widespread adoption. Read the full review to explore the evidence and recommendations in detail.
HealthProtecting the Developing Brains of Children from the Harmful Effects of Plastics and Toxic Chemicals in Plastics
Report
Discover the urgent need to protect children’s developing brains from the harmful effects of plastics and toxic chemicals with this recent report, “Protecting the Developing Brains of Children from the Harmful Effects of Plastics and Toxic Chemicals in Plastics.”
This briefing paper, prepared by experts from Project TENDR, summarizes mounting scientific evidence linking plastic exposure to neurodevelopmental disabilities and cognitive deficits in children. It also provides essential policy recommendations to strengthen the new global treaty on plastics pollution. Download the report or watch the webinar to learn more about how we can address the toxicity and proliferation of plastics and petrochemicals.
PollutionGeneva Beat Plastic Pollution
Report
The time to address the plastic crisis is now. Plastic pollution is a global issue demanding urgent, coordinated action from all stakeholders. This report highlights the Geneva Beat Plastic Pollution dialogues, which played a crucial role in shaping the negotiations for a global agreement. These dialogues raised awareness and urgency, culminating in the historic mandate at UNEA 5.2 to negotiate an international legally binding instrument to end plastic pollution.
HealthValue Engineering in Plumbing Systems
Report
Explore the critical role of value engineering (VE) in plumbing systems with this comprehensive report, “Value Engineering in Plumbing Systems.” Discover how effective VE can optimize costs without compromising essential functions, while understanding the potential pitfalls through real-world examples like the costly Baltimore hotel case.
Learn from the insights of industry professionals who emphasize the importance of balancing cost with durability, safety, and sustainability. This report provides essential guidance for architects, engineers, and contractors on making informed decisions to maintain plumbing system integrity and avoid costly mistakes. Download the report today to enhance your approach to VE in plumbing projects.
EquityAdvancing Health and Equity through Better Building Products
Report
Habitable’s report, “Advancing Health and Equity through Better Building Products,” reveals the current state of building materials used, with nearly 70% of typical products in the categories analyzed containing or relying on the most hazardous chemicals.
The results, based on data for Minnesota affordable housing, are consistent with products used in other building types and geographic regions. The report highlights examples of leaders within and beyond Minnesota’s built environment who are already taking action toward safer material choices. It also provides guidance on how the real estate industry can begin working toward a healthier future by “stepping up from red-ranked products”—the most polluting and harmful throughout their life cycle based on Habitable’s research and Informed™ product guidance.
PollutionToxic Free Future
Report
Toxic-Free Future is a leading advocate for environmental health, leveraging science, education, and activism to promote strong laws and corporate responsibility that safeguard the health of individuals and the planet.
HealthPFAS Questions
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Watch this video for a summary of legislation, scientific findings and more about PFAS “forever chemicals.”
PollutionThe rap battle against PFAS
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ChemSec takes on PFAS in this educational rap battle.
PollutionThe Perils of PVC Plastic Pipes
Report
This report discusses concerns about replacing lead service lines with PVC plastic pipes, highlighting the potential health and environmental risks associated with leaching chemicals, urging for thorough consideration and evaluation of alternative piping materials.
HealthHistoric redlining and the siting of oil and gas wells in the United States
Report
This report explores the association between racially discriminatory housing practices from the 1930s and exposure to oil and gas wells, highlighting the impact of structural racism on environmental exposure disparities in urban areas.