Greenlist(tm) Bulletin 02/29/2008
This is the weekly bulletin of the TURI Library, reporting a selection of recently published titles we have acquired. Our pledge is to keep the bulletin relevant to your work and brief -- no more than 10 titles. You are welcome to send a message to jan@turi.org if you would like more information on any of the articles listed here.
Titles here, abstracts below:
- Application of the Toxics Release Inventory to nanomaterials
- When buildings talk, people listen
- Halogenated volatile organic compounds from the use of chlorine-bleach-containing household products
- Partial ban for paint strippers containing dichloromethane proposed
- Off the hook: stronger soft-plastic fishing lure reels in raves
- Airborne contaminants study released: measurable levels detected in twenty Western U.S. and Alaska National Parks
- Greener extraction of one of nature’s whitest minerals
- Increased risk of cancer in the offspring of female electronics workers
- Campus greening: behind the headlines
- Golden alternative
1. Application of the Toxics Release Inventory to nanomaterials
Authors: Breggin, Linda K.; Porter, Read D.
Source: Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars. Project on Emerging Nanotechnologies, 2008
Abstract: This research brief examines whether the legal authorities that establish the Toxics Release Inventory (TRI) in the Emergency Planning and Community-Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA) could be applied to nanomaterials. Although several organizations have published analyses of whether specific environmental laws could be used to regulate nanomaterials, none of these reviews has examined EPCRA or TRI in any detail.
Examination of the principal federal right-to-know law seems opportune for several reasons. First, the only law that specifcally addresses environmental, health, and safety of nanomaterials, enacted in 2006 by the City of Berkeley, California, takes a “right-to-know” approach that requires facilities that manufacture or use “manufactured nanoparticles” to disclose both the known toxicology of those materials and the facility’s plan for material handling, monitoring, containment, disposal, inventory tracking, release prevention, and mitigation. The City’s reporting guidance document expands on the ordinance by requiring disclosure of inhalation, dermal, oral, geno-, and reproductive toxicity information, as expressed through published research. The City of Cambridge, Massachusetts is currently considering the adoption of a similar ordinance.
Second, several non-profit groups have called for various forms of regulation of nanomaterials, including some types of disclosure. Most recently, a broad coalition of 40 environmental, consumers, labor; and other groups called for regulation and disclosure, including labeling of products containing nanomaterials.5 Similarly, a coalition of organizations in the United Kingdom, led by the Royal Academy, have begun to develop a code of conduct for businesses involved in manufacturing and using nanomaterials. Another group in the United Kingdom, Corporate Watch, recently issued a report criticizing the European Union for lack of regulation and labeling of nanomaterials. Thus, there is stakeholder interest in adoption of right-to-know or disclosure-based regulation for nanomaterials.
Third, recent hearings and proposed legislation in the United States (U.S.) Congress address amendments to TRI. Much of this legislative activity has been in response, in part, to recent, widely-criticized regulatory changes under TRI, which are discussed further below. In addition, bills are pending that would expand TRI to cover greenhouse gas emissions. Although currently proposed legislation does not address nanomaterials, a public dialogue about the benefits and costs of TRI is underway that could allow for at least tangential discussion of the program’s application to nanomaterials.
WWW: http://www.nanotechproject.org/process/files/6088/brief2_eli_2_5_08.pdf
2. When buildings talk, people listen
Author: Sharer, Peter
Source: GreenerBuildings, February 27, 2008
Abstract: The green economy is bristling with new technologies that have to the potential to lead us into a new sustainable economy, but we have only begun to scratch the surface of conservation driven by behavior change.
Conservation is the low-hanging fruit of resource sustainability. The only investment it requires is that we become more aware of the impact of our unconscious habits and the difference we can make by living more consciously both at home and at work. This must include day-to-day business practices and activities (switching off lights and computers) as well as demanding change in building practices and corporate policy. The drivers of these changes are simple and powerful: financial incentive and behavioral feedback.
WWW: http://greenerbuildings.com/news_detail.cfm?Page=1&NewsID=55654
3. Halogenated volatile organic compounds from the use of chlorine-bleach-containing household products
Author: Odabasi, Mustafa
Source: Environmental Science & Technology, February 1, 2008, pp1445-1451
Abstract: Sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) and many organic chemicals contained in household cleaning products may react to generate halogenated volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Halogenated VOC emissions from eight different chlorine bleach containing household products (pure and diluted) were investigated by headspace experiments. Chloroform and carbon tetrachloride were the leading compounds along with several halogenated compounds in the headspace of chlorine bleach products. One of the most surprising results was the presence of carbon tetrachloride (a probable human carcinogen and a powerful greenhouse gas that was banned for household use by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration) in very high concentrations (up to 101 mg m-3). By mixing surfactants or soap with NaOCl, it was shown that the formation of carbon tetrachloride and several other halogenated VOCs is possible. In addition to quantitatively determined halogenated VOCs (n = 15), several nitrogen-containing (n = 4), chlorinated (n = 10), oxygenated compounds (n = 22), and hydrocarbons (n = 14) were identified in the headspace of bleach products. Among these, 1,1-dichlorobutane and 2-chloro-2-nitropropane were the most abundant chlorinated VOCs, whereas trichloronitromethane and hexachloroethane were the most frequently detected ones. Indoor air halogenated VOC concentrations resulting from the use of four selected household products were also measured before, during, and 30 min after bathroom, kitchen, and floor cleaning applications. Chloroform (2.9–24.6 µg m-3) and carbon tetrachloride (0.25–459 µg m-3) concentrations significantly increased during the use of bleach containing products. During/before concentration ratios ranged between 8 and 52 (25 ± 14, average ± SD) for chloroform and 1–1170 (146 ± 367, average ± SD) for carbon tetrachloride, respectively. These results indicated that the bleach use can be important in terms of inhalation exposure to carbon tetrachloride, chloroform and several other halogenated VOCs.
4. Partial ban for paint strippers containing dichloromethane proposed
Source: EUROPA, February 14, 2008
Abstract: The European Commission has proposed to restrict the sale and use of paint strippers containing dichloromethane. Such paint removers, are used in industry and are also sold in “Do-It-Yourself” stores accessible to everybody. Dichloromethane vapour is toxic to the central nervous system and the Commission’s proposal follows concerns of some experts that a number of accidents and fatalities which have occurred in recent years in the EU have been linked to use of the substance. The Commission therefore proposes to ban the sale of such paint strippers to the general public and professional users. However, taking account of other expert opinion that this substance may be safely used by professionals if adequate precautions are taken, Member States may permit their purchase and use by licensed professionals who have received appropriate training. For industrial activities, their use will be permitted under strictly controlled conditions. The formal adoption by the European Parliament and the Council is expected by the end of the year.
WWW: http://europa.eu/rapid/pressReleasesAction.do?reference=IP/08/236&
format=HTML&aged=0&language=EN&guiLanguage=en
5. Off the hook: stronger soft-plastic fishing lure reels in raves
Source: University of Wisconsin-Madison, February 21, 2008
Abstract: Working with University of Wisconsin-Madison engineering and business school faculty and students, a Wisconsin entrepreneur has perfected a fiber-reinforced fishing lure that may prevent millions of pounds of toxic plastics from polluting waters nationwide.
Earning raves in the sport-fishing world, entrepreneur Ben Hobbins plans to launch his strong, sustainable soft lure in sporting goods stores in late February.
Each year, more than 12,000 tons of rubbery "soft baits" land at the bottom of lakes, streams and rivers, says Hobbins, who is president and CEO of Waunakee-based Lake Resources Group.
The lures are so pliable that a run through thick weeds or a fish's misdirected attempt to gobble the bait can rip the lure or pull it off the hook entirely. "If you go into a sporting-goods store, every soft-plastic fishing lure on the wall is lost in the environment," he says. "And that's a staggering thought."
Most sporting goods stores house a veritable rainbow of these soft-plastic lures, which come in every shape and size imaginable. For years, anglers have used the brightly colored, realistic swimmers to successfully attract and land fish ranging from tiny bluegill and crappie to bass, walleye and the mighty muskie. But the highly plasticized PVC material that makes these soft, flexible lures an asset to fishermen also makes them a detriment to the environment. "Half the weight of these lures is plasticizer, or very-low molecular-weight materials that are called phthalates," says Tim Osswald, a UW-Madison professor of mechanical engineering.
Manufacturers add phthalates to polyvinyl chloride, or PVC, products to make them flexible. Several studies have linked the chemical compounds with a variety of adverse health effects; California recently passed a law banning phthalates in children's toys, beginning in 2009.
An environmentalist and ice fisherman who dreaded constant fumbling with cold hands to replace torn soft-bait lures, Hobbins devised his soft-bait alternative, called "IronClads"," one chilly November morning back in 2006.
Key to the technology is tiny microfibers embedded in the soft-plastic material, says Osswald, who co-directs the UW-Madison Polymer Engineering Center. "They're placed in such a way that you still have the flexible lure, but you can't rip it," he says. "Now, they're stiffer to the pull, if you stretch them - but they're still flexible and deliver the desired performance."
True to their commitment to sustainability, however, the researchers also are investigating environmentally benign materials for the lures. In addition, they are studying alternate applications - everything from golf-club grips and ladder hand-holds to the hand-contact points on a military weapon - for the IronClad technology.
WWW: http://www.news.wisc.edu/releases/14292
6. Airborne contaminants study released: measurable levels detected in twenty Western U.S. and Alaska National Parks
Source: National Park Service (NPS), February 26, 2008
Abstract: According to a study released by the Western Airborne Contaminants Assessment Project (WACAP), numerous airborne contaminants, including heavy metals and both current-use and North American historic-use pesticides, have been detected at measurable levels in ecosystems at twenty western U.S. and Alaska national parks from the Arctic to the Mexican border. The eight core national park areas studied were Glacier, Mount Rainier, Olympic, Rocky Mountain, Sequoia & Kings Canyon, Denali, Gates of the Arctic, and Noatak. The study was funded primarily by the National Park Service (NPS) to evaluate the potential threats to park ecosystems and likely sources of these contaminants.
Key findings from the six-year, multi-agency study, which can be accessed at: http://www.nature.nps.gov/air/Studies/air_toxics/wacap.cfm indicate that out of over 100 organic contaminants tested, 70 were found at detectable levels in snow, water, vegetation, lake sediment, and fish. While concentrations of most of these contaminants were below levels of concern, others appear to be accumulating in sensitive resources such as fish. For some contaminants, high concentrations in fish have exceeded fish-eating wildlife and/or human health consumption thresholds in many of the eight core parks studied.
Evidence suggests that the contaminants found in this study are carried in air masses from sources as far away as Europe and Asia, and as near as the local county. According to Dr. Dixon Landers, the project's Science Lead, the presence of contaminants in snow is well-correlated with the proximity of each park to agricultural areas, pointing to these areas as probable major sources of these contaminants. In Alaska parks, with little nearby agriculture in the region, there are very low concentrations of most current-use compounds. However, concentrations of historic-use chemicals in Alaska systems are similar to those in the other parks sampled, suggesting greater influence from global atmospheric transport.
The three contaminants of highest concern for human and wildlife health included: 1) Mercury – a heavy metal emitted through processes such as burning coal for electricity that causes neurological and reproductive impairment; 2) Dieldrin – an acutely toxic insecticide banned from use in the U.S. since 1987 that decreases the effectiveness of the immune system; and 3) DDT – an insecticide banned in the U.S. since 1972 that reduces reproductive success.
WWW: http://home.nps.gov/applications/release/Detail.cfm?ID=784
7. Greener extraction of one of nature’s whitest minerals
Source: University of Leeds, February 11, 2008
Abstract: From medicine to make-up, plastics to paper - hardly a day goes by when we don't use titanium dioxide. Now researchers at the University of Leeds have developed a simpler, cheaper and greener method of extracting higher yields of one of this most useful and versatile of minerals.
In powder form titanium dioxide (TiO2) is widely used as an intensely white pigment to brighten everyday products such as paint, paper, plastics, food, medicines, ceramics, cosmetics - and even toothpaste. Its excellent UV ray absorption qualities make it perfect for sunscreen lotions too.
TiO2 is also a precursor material for titanium metal production. In metal form it’s strong and lightweight and is used in the aerospace and electronics industries as well as being used to strengthen golf clubs and fishing rods. It is also inert and biocompatible, making it suitable for medical devices and artificial implants.
Unfortunately, despite its relative abundance in nature, it’s natural occurrence is never pure, being bound with contaminant metals such as iron, aluminium and radio-active elements.
Pigment grade TiO2 is produced from mineral ore by smelting, then treating the slag with chlorine, or by directly introducing it into a sulphuric acid solution. These two processes generate toxic and hazardous wastes. The treatment of such wastes is expensive and complex.
Professor Animesh Jha's patented process consists of roasting the mineral ore with alkali to remove the contaminants, which are washed and leached with acid to yield valuable by-products for the electronics industry. The coarse residue left behind is then reacted with 20 times less than the usual amount of chlorine to produce titanium dioxide powder.
The Leeds process gives an average yield of up to 97 per cent TiO2, compared with the current industry average of 85 per cent. This level of purity will reduce production costs of pigment grade materials and waste disposal costs. In addition, the process also recycles waste CO2 and heat.
Furthermore, Prof. Jha is confident that the process can be further refined to yield 99 per cent pure titanium dioxide.
“Researchers have sought a sustainable replacement for current processes for many years,” says Prof. Jha, from the University’s Faculty of Engineering. “Our aim was to develop new technology for complex minerals of titanium dioxide that are particularly low-grade and whilst readily available in the world market, can’t yet be extracted economically,” he says.
“Our process is a real world breakthrough, because it can be used for both lower and richer grades of ores and it overcomes major environmental concerns about having to neutralise and discharge wastes generated in the process that end up going into contamination ponds.”
WWW: http://www.leeds.ac.uk/media/press_releases/current/titanium_dioxide.htm
8. Increased risk of cancer in the offspring of female electronics workers
Authors: Sung, Tzu-I.; Wang, Jung-Der; Chen, Pau-Chung
Source: Reproductive Toxicology, January 2008, pp115-119
Abstract: There is limited evidence on the hypothesis that maternal occupational exposure near conception increases the risk of cancer in offspring. This study is to investigate whether women employed in an electronics factory increases childhood cancer among first live born singletons. We linked the databases of Birth Registration and Labor Insurance, and National Cancer Registry, which identified 40,647 female workers ever employed in this factory who gave 40,647 first live born singletons, and 47 of them developed cancers during 1979–2001. Mothers employed in this factory during their periconceptional periods (3 months before and after conception) were considered as exposed and compared with those not employed during the same periods. Poisson regression model was constructed to adjust for potential confounding by maternal age, education, sex, and year of birth. Based on 11 exposed cases, the rate ratio of all malignant neoplasms was increased to 2.26 [95% confidence interval (CI), 1.12–4.54] among children whose mothers worked in this factory during periconceptional periods. The RRs were associated with 6 years or less (RR = 3.05; 95% CI, 1.20–7.74) and 7–9 years (RR = 2.49; 95% CI, 1.26–4.94) of education compared with 10 years or more. An increased association was also found between childhood leukemia and exposed pregnancies (RR = 3.83; 95% CI, 1.17–12.55). Our study suggests that maternal occupation with potential exposure to organic solvents during periconception might increase risks of childhood cancers, especially for leukemia.
9. Campus greening: behind the headlines
Author: Rappaport, Ann
Source: Environment: Science and Policy for Sustainable Development, January/February 2008, pp7-16
Abstract: Composting toilets in residences, electric vehicles for mail delivery, locally grown organic food in the dining halls, biodiesel buses, solar thermal systems to heat water, and photovoltaic panels for electricity—these are just a few of the features designed to reduce the environmental effects of today’s college campuses. Institutions of higher education are undergoing a wave of greening driven by infusions of capital, ambitious goals, high visibility, and high stakes. The 4,200 colleges and universities in the United States have more than 17 million enrolled students, many of whom live, learn, eat, and exercise on campuses. Add the global university population, and the resources consumed by educational institutions are staggering. If colleges and universities improve their environmental performance dramatically, and if they have a long-term influence on choices made by graduates in their work, homes, and communities, the collective effect could be vast. Although campus greening has been going on for decades, recent initiatives fueled by concern for global warming have the potential to establish new thinking about infrastructure development, research programs, investment decisions, and learning.
10. Golden alternative
Author: Olander, Eric
Source: Products Finishing, February 2008
Abstract: The search for trivalent chromates complying with the European Union’s End of Life Vehicle (ELV) and Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) directives has emphasized trivalent chromates that are clear/blue and black. Yellow has been largely left behind for automotive applications because of the challenges involved in achieving an acceptable yellow color, and because the performance of the trivalent clear/blue chromates in salt spray corrosion testing equals or exceeds that of hexavalent yellow chromates. Yet another challenge with existing technology for trivalent yellow chromate conversion coatings is that multiple dips are necessary to achieve the level of corrosion protection required.
All these things are beginning to change. This article will discuss two new processes available for the zinc electroplater and how they address these challenges to give automotive designers a yellow trivalent chromate option.
WWW: http://www.pfonline.com/articles/020803.html
You are welcome to send a message to jan@turi.org if you would like more information on any of these resources. Also, please tell us what topics you are particularly interested in monitoring, and who else should see Greenlist. An online search of the TURI Library catalog can be done at http://slk060.liberty3.net/turi for greater topic coverage.
This page updated Friday February 29 2008