From Mountains to Molecules: Tackling Toxics To Protect People/Our Planet

Does it seem like a new, potentially dangerous substance turns up almost every week in what we eat, wear, or use? Is it hard to keep track of what might harm our health and how to avoid it? What sources should we trust for information about the health hazards around us? 

The Green Science Policy Institute is trying to make these challenges easier. Rather than addressing each of the tens of thousands of chemicals found in everyday products, the Institute focuses on reducing the use of six classes of chemicals that contain many of the hazardous substances found in consumer goods.

Arlene Blum, scientist, author, and world-class mountaineer, is the founder and executive director of the Institute. At Arts & Culture on Wednesday, May 7, at 7 p.m., she will discuss how the so-called Six Classes approach can lead to safer products and protect the health of people and the environment.

She’ll begin her presentation with some dramatic images and stories from her mountain climbing days. She’ll share how leading successful expeditions on some of the world’s highest, most dangerous peaks gave her the vision and determination to try to improve government policy and manufacturing practices.