Industry Trends


Indiana Researchers Create Easy-to-Clean Polymer

The coatings eliminate the need for harsh detergents and solvents that may contain phosphates and be discharged into lakes and streams, according to a presentation at the American Chemical Society's meeting this week.

Green Consumer Poll Finds Economy Is their Top Concern

Shelton Group surveys more than 1,000 U.S. consumers who at least occasionally buy green products and discovers there is no "typical" green consumer.

Foundation Study Suggests Link between Toxins and Myeloma

According to Dr. Brian Durie, the study supports the notion that genetic factors affecting toxin breakdown may be related to the development of myeloma.

Ohio EPA Teams with Insurers for Brownfields' Cleanups

Those who want to voluntarily clean up a brownfield site in Ohio may be eligible for discounted insurance through a new state program.

Former FEMA Director Michael Brown to Speak at AHMP Meeting

Annual Alliance of Hazardous Materials Professionals conference will look at the critical role members play in developing sustainability and preparing for disasters.

MDs Say Solar and Wind Power Not as Risky to Workers

Wind and solar power jobs appear to offer less risk than those associated with coal, oil, and natural gas, according to Drs. Sumner and Layde.

Infrastructure

Bridges for Human and Aquatic Species

MACTEC Engineering and Consulting assembled a design team for the U.S. Forest Service to evaluate the risks and determine mitigating measures to enable safe passage for human traffic and aquatic species in nine National Forests.



Square D Receives Occupational Excellence Award

The National Safety Council names Square D Services a winner for occupational achievement for reporting few injuries and illnesses and no fatalities in 2008.

PPG to Lower Mercury Emissions at Natrium Plant

A portion of the Natrium facility, which was built in 1957, uses an outdated, mercury-based production process that remains in use at only four of the 119 chlorine plants in the United States.

UL Offers Certification for Dispensers of E25 Blends

At blends above E25, there is increased potential for different types of damage to materials and components and, as a result, there are more stringent requirements.

Researcher Examines Arsenic Exposure-Flu Link in Podcast

Study finds 100 ppb arsenic in drinking water compromises the immune response of mice; research recommends water well users get water tested.

New Rule Would Lower Impact of Airport Deicing

EPA proposes that major airports needing to deice planes would install centralized deicing pads or collect the spent fluid.

Brown University Notes Nanoparticle Effects on Flies

Contaminated flies transferred nanoparticles to other flies and that transfer could also occur to humans in the future.

Landmark Deal Puts Hanford Cleanup on Track

The settlement of Washington's 2008 lawsuit against the Department of Energy recommits the federal government to a cleanup of groundwater and waste stored in tanks at the Hanford Site, officials said this week.

Habitat for Humanity, Home Depot Partner for Energy Star

Habitat for Humanity affiliates that build homes to green standards can receive up to $5,000 through an expansion of the Partners in Sustainable Building program.