Synthetic chemicals are pervasive in our everyday lives. They’re in many of the products we use like fast food wrappers, cleaning products and personal care items. Even when we’re done with those things, the chemicals live on, and the impacts of that are far-reaching. A Chicago Tribune investigation earlier this year found more than 8 million people in Illinois get their drinking water from utilities where at least one forever chemical has been detected. That’s six out of every 10 Illinoisans.
The 21st spoke to a panel of guests to hear more about the study and learn about the impacts of emerging contaminants.
Guests
John Scott
Senior chemist with the Illinois Sustainable Technology CenterSonya Lunder
Sierra Club’s Senior Toxics Advisor for the Clean Water, Toxic Chemicals, and Climate Resilience ProgramMichael Hawthorne
Investigative Reporter, Chicago TribuneMelanie Benesh
Vice President of Government Affairs, Environmental Working Group
Synthetic chemicals found in over 8 million Illinoisans’ drinking water
Environmental News Bits 