New research finds sky-high insecticide levels in Colorado water
By Shannon Kelleher
Adding to evidence about the pervasiveness of pesticides that endanger human and environmental health, new research has found widely used insecticides in Colorado waterways at levels 100 times higher than what researchers say is needed to protect aquatic life.
Proposed federal law would turn tables on Big Ag, establishing a right to sue for pesticide injuries
By Carey Gillam
Taking specific aim at the global agrochemical companies Bayer and Syngenta, US Sen. Cory Booker on Thursday introduced legislation that would create a federal “right of action” allowing people to sue those pesticide makers and others for allegedly causing health harms such as cancer and Parkinson’s disease.
US House 2026 budget guts environmental protections
By Brian Bienkowski
Republicans are proposing deep cuts to the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the fiscal year 2026 appropriations bill, which additionally would provide new protections for pesticide makers and would limit federal help for farmers dealing with “forever chemical” contamination.
Community air monitors give Detroiters new power against pollution
By Brian Bienkowski
Detroit suffers from some of the worst air quality in the nation. But last year the startup JustAir partnered with Wayne County to put up 100 air monitors, shining a light on the worst sources of pollution and empowering residents and local officials.
New natural food dye approved as FDA pressures industry to drop Red Dye No. 3
By Brian Bienkowski
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved another naturally derived food dye on Monday, making good on one of its key promises in the effort to rid the US food system of petroleum-based synthetic dyes.
Food giants graded a “D” on sustainable farming practices
By Shannon Kelleher
Major food corporations are failing to effectively support farming practices that protect human and environmental health, according to an assessment of 20 companies released Thursday by a corporate watchdog group.
Cancer risk doubles for Iowa, NC pesticide applicators who used carbaryl, study finds
By Brian Bienkowski
Pesticide applicators in North Carolina and Iowa who sprayed the insecticide carbaryl often during their career have a higher risk of getting stomach, esophageal, tongue and prostate cancers, according to new research led by the National Cancer Institute (NCI).
With trial approaching, Syngenta settles paraquat lawsuit brought by Parkinson’s patient
By Carey Gillam
Less than a month ahead of what would have been the first US trial over allegations that a popular weedkiller made by agrochemical giant Syngenta causes Parkinson’s disease, the parties have agreed to settle the case. With a looming Aug. 4 Philadelphia trial date, the case of Douglas Nemeth v. Syngenta, which previously was delayed multiple times, was being closely watched as the two sides battled over evidence to be presented and expert witnesses.
Postcard from California: Plastics ‘recycling’ – out of sight, out of mind
By Bill Walker
Last year California shipped more than 156 million pounds of plastic waste to poor countries, with almost three-fourths sent to Mexico and another 44 million pounds sent to developing nations in Asia, Latin America, and Africa. That’s the reality behind the blue recycling bins Californians fill with plastic waste for curbside pickup. We may think we’re recycling, but we’re really sending much of our waste out of sight, out of mind.
“It doesn’t have to be this way” – Scientists confirm Iowa farm pollution is creating dire health risks
By Carey Gillam
Agricultural operations across Iowa are a leading cause of significant water pollution problems in the state, posing dire risks to public and environmental health, according to a new scientific report that is sparking heated debate in the key US farm state.