Environmental Toxins: Hindering Our Efforts To Live A Green & Healthy Lifestyle

Written by Krista Peterson

Both our planet and our health are worth preserving. Unfortunately, the manufacturing and circulation of environmental toxins like BPA, asbestos, and particulate matter are suffocating the efforts of many Americans who are striving to live green.

Bisphenol A (BPA) and chemicals called phthalates are ingredients in many of the plastic products we use today, including baby bottles and children’s toys. Studies are showing that these chemicals are the cause of developmental issues brought on by the altering of the endocrine system’s processes. In fact, these toxins may be partly to blame for diseases that have haunted us for ages, including diabetes, autism, ADHD, and cancer. We are often exposed to BPA through food packaging, though, according to the EPA, food packaging manufacturing accounts for only 5% of BPA used in the United States.

Besides BPA and the negative effects it can have on our health, there are other environmental toxins. Asbestos is a natural mineral that was used in the construction of buildings, ships, and car parts in the US as early as the 1920’s. Asbestos was used for its fire resistance, and is generally harmless when left undisturbed. However, when asbestos products are tampered with or damaged, their fibers are released into the air and inhaled or ingested. The result is a cancer called mesothelioma. Mesothelioma symptoms are latent for 20-50 years after asbestos exposure and those diagnosed with the cancer statistically live for a few short months.

In addition to the dangers of asbestos, particulate matter, yet another environmental toxin, negatively affects our health. It is a complex conglomeration of tiny particles and drops of liquid consisting of nitrates, sulfates, metals, and organic chemicals. The smaller the particles, the more detrimental they are to our well-being and the easier it is for them to enter the lungs. Particulate matter poisoning may result in asthma, chronic bronchitis, heart disease, coughing, and difficulty breathing. By reducing our dependency diesel and petroleum powered vehicles and power plants.

Though the 2010 Californian BPA ban was unsuccessful, it is up to us to protect ourselves and to preserve our planet. By reducing our usage of plastic products, we can reduce the manufacturing of BPA and similar toxins. Also, if mesothelioma symptoms or asbestos exposure are suspected, see a physician. Those around you may be at risk as well, and your vigilance could better their chances of avoiding or recovering from mesothelioma. Finally, by speaking out against businesses and products that produce particulate matter, we can free our air and secure our long-term health.