Green Ways to Control Mosquitoes

Mosquito season is here - but you don’t have to grab dangerous, chemical-laden pesticides to ward them off. Here are some natural alternatives to help keep mosquitoes at bay.

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The high cost of fireworks

The breathtaking colors of the annual, nationwide celebrations have a far greater cost just their sticker price.

Every year, across America, cities, communities, families, and friends celebrate Independence Day with fireworks. The ritual usually begins a few days prior to July 4th and trickles off a few days after the 4th. During this one week period, give or take a day or two, Americans set things on fire in celebration of Independence. Many trying to outshine their own previous displays - or that of their neighbors, friends, or foes.

Oohs and aahs often come from all points of the compass within viewing distance. From simple sparklers, bottle rockets, and roman candles to complex devices requiring timing, planning, and fire departments on standby - we light it all up and cheer. The only limiting factor, for most displays, is monetary budget. These pyrotechnic extravaganzas have many hidden environmental costs…

Learn more about the toxic lifecycle of fireworks, alternatives, and more just keep reading …

Over 100 toxic chemicals associated with vinyl shower curtains

Do you enjoy that new shower curtain smell when you open up a new vinyl shower curtain? That smell is a result of chemicals within the PVC vinyl and is a health hazard. A new study, “Volatile Vinyl: The New Shower Curtain’s Chemical Smell“[pdf], released by the Canadien Environmental Law Association (CELA) and the US-Based Center for Health, Environment & Justice (CHEJ) exposes the dangers of an often overlooked, widely used bathroom product.

“The new shower curtain smell may be toxic to your health,” according to Michael Schade, co-author of the report and CHEJ PVC Campaign Coordinator.

PVC shower curtains contain numerous harmful chemicals including volatile organic compounds (VOCs), phthalates, and organotins. Some VOCs are known to cause cancer in animals and suspected to cause cancer in humans. The toxic gases (off-gassing) released from PVC shower curtains can contribute to: respiratory irritation; damage to the central nervous system; liver damage; kidney damage; nausea; headaches; and loss of coordination - what a terrible way to start your day!

To learn more about the study, disposal information, or about some safe alternatives that we dug up for you keep reading …