Check out this great resource
Environmental Working Group for the win!
Since the days are getting longer here in the Northern Hemisphere, lawn chemicals and sunscreen are in abundant supply, and transparency about product safety seems to have gone out the window (along with everything else), this seems like a good time to introduce you to a most excellent resource: the Environmental Working Group.
If you’re already familiar with EWG, no need to read on—I’ll catch you on the next post. But if you’re not, EWG is my go-to resource to get the latest science on the safety of products of all kinds: sunscreen, shampoo, conditioner, lotions, food, cosmetics, diapers, even tap water.
Who are they?
A team of scientists, lawyers, data analysts, and communication specialists that work together to determine the potential health impacts of everyday products. In addition to creating guides for consumers, they also work to effect change via lawsuits and legislation.
What do they do?
They analyze products and provide consumers with a detailed list of ingredients, noting the safety of each one. That includes anything that might be harmful, whether it’s pesticides, micro- and nanoplastics, carcinogens, chemicals that mimic or block hormones (which can cause reproductive harm), or aromas and other scents that can trigger respiratory reactions. You wouldn’t think such problematic substances would be in the items we use, but they are in abundant supply.
EWG also investigates food and water safety, farming and agricultural practices, health, energy, and more. They’re a great group!
How can you use their resources?
They put out a variety of consumer guides including Skin Deep (personal care products), an annual sunscreen guide, even a tap water guide. If you put it on your skin or in your body, it’s wise to know how safe something is. (Spoiler: a surprising number of items are NOT.) You can look up items you already use, or—if you’re in the market for a change—find the safest products by searching for EWG Verified.
Want to know how to reduce the climate impact of your diet? They have a guide for that too. Along with a whole lot more, including links on where to find items that probably aren’t stocked in your local big box store. Go check it out. I hope you find it as useful as I do!
If you like One Simple Thing, please forward to a friend who might be interested in taking steps toward a healthier planet!
I donated to them for a number of years!