New Pyrethroid Metabolite Standards – Now Available!
Pyrethroid insecticides are synthetic analogs of naturally occurring pyrethrins, which are derived from chrysanthemum flowers. Pyrethroids have been gaining popularity for use against a wide range of insects in place of traditionally used organochlorine (OC) and organophosphorus (OP) pesticides. The increased usage of pyrethroids for agricultural and non-agricultural applications has led to the need for increased testing in environmental and exposure studies, especially in water testing due to known toxicity to fish and other aquatic organisms. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is currently reevaluating a total of 23 pyrethroids and pyrethrins for risks to human health and the environment. Read more...
Europe Proposes Large Reduction in Use of Bisphenol A
Bisphenol A (BPA) is a synthetic chemical that has been used in the manufacture of epoxy resins and polycarbonate plastic. BPA is a known endocrine disruptor and has been linked to causing reproductive and neurological problems. Most recently, BPA has also been associated with causing dysfunction of neutrophils at high doses, potentially leading to immunodeficiency disorders.1 Most human exposure is a direct result of food and beverage consumption, as BPA has been used as a major component in plastics used to manufacture food and beverage containers. Read more...
UK Approves Emergency Use Authorization of Thiamethoxam in Sugar Beets
Outdoor use of three neonicotinoids – clothianidin, imidacloprid, and thiamethoxam – has been prohibited in the United Kingdom (UK) since 2018. Many countries have been limiting use, or banning use, of certain neonicotinoids due to their being associated with contributing to colony collapse disorder (CCD) in honeybees. Recently however, the UK has approved a 2022 emergency use authorization of thiamethoxam to treat sugar beet seed to protect the crop from yellow virus carried by aphids. Since the discontinuation of use of thiamethoxam in 2018, yellow virus has been problematic, with a 25% crop loss in 2020.1 Alternate control measures have not been successful at controlling the virus. Read more...
…The EU has proposed a ban on PFAS in firefighting foams?
…Earth Day is April 22?
Learn more about this annual event that supports environmental protection at Earth Day: The Official Site | EARTHDAY.ORG... Quick tips to help you help the environment
• Opt for non-toxic cleaning products, such as vinegar, water, and baking soda
• Consider planting your own vegetable garden
• Reduce paper use by using old fabrics or reusable cloths instead of paper towels
• Donate or recycle clothing that is no longer worn
• Compost food scraps instead of throwing them away
• Freshen up your space by opening windows instead of using artificial fragrance refreshers
• Hang-dry your clothes outside instead of using the dryer