2018 Science Matters Stories
Forecasting Smoke from Utah Wildfires to Protect Public Health
December 13, 2018 - Wildfire smoke poses a threat to public health and safety. EPA researcher Gayle Hagler served as an Air Resource Advisor for Utah’s Pole Creek and Bald Mountain fires as part of the U.S. Forest Service’s Wildland Fire Air Quality Response Program. Hagler created a daily “Smoke Outlook” to communicate information to the public about the fire conditions, meteorology, and predicted fine particulate matter levels in areas downwind of the wildfires. Read Forecasting Smoke from Utah Wildfires to Protect Public Health.
New Research Shows that Exposure to Chemicals like BPA Disrupts Microbial Communities in Zebrafish
December 13, 2018 - Bisphenol A (BPA) is an industrial chemical that has been used to make certain plastics and resins since the 1960s. New research by EPA scientists shows that BPA and its most commonly-used alternatives disrupt microbial community structure in zebrafish. These dynamic communities of bacteria, viruses, fungi, archaea, and protozoa colonize the skin and gut of a host animal (including humans) and play important roles in health and disease. Read New Research Shows that Exposure to Chemicals like BPA Disrupts Microbial Communities in Zebrafish.
EPA Researchers use AI to Mimic Human Behaviors that Could Affect our Exposure to Chemicals
December 13, 2018 - Where and how we spend our time plays a major role in the types of chemicals we’re exposed to each day. To better understand these exposures, EPA researchers have created a method that models human behaviors using artificial intelligence. This data is necessary to assess a chemical’s potential risk to human health. Read EPA Researchers use AI to Mimic Human Behaviors that Could Affect our Exposure to Chemicals.
Understanding Air Pollution in the Southeastern United States
December 3, 2018 - During the summer of 2013, some 60 atmospheric scientists converged in Alabama, Tennessee, and North Carolina to study everything they could about the physical and chemical interactions of many pollutants in the atmosphere. This collaborative field project, supported by EPA, NOAA, and the National Science Foundation, generated more than 111 published papers, providing a wealth of data and findings that have been made available to the public and an improved understanding of aerosol processes in the southeastern U.S. Read Understanding Air Pollution in the Southeastern United States.
EPA and Partners Bring Custom-Designed Cleaner-Burning Stoves to Navajo Homes
December 3, 2018 - More than 60% of Navajo households use wood stoves for heat. The stoves are often very old, inefficient, and poorly vented, leading to high levels of indoor and outdoor air pollution and increased risk of fires. To combat these issues, EPA and partners have researched and designed a comprehensive stove replacement and home weatherization program that meets the needs of the Navajo Nation. Read EPA and Partners Bring Custom-Designed Cleaner-Burning Stoves to Navajo Homes.
EPA Uses Floating Vegetated Islands to Remove Excess Nutrients from Water
December 3, 2018 - Harmful algal blooms—the overgrowth of algae in water—are a major problem across the nation. They can cause severe, negative impacts on aquatic ecosystems, the economy, and human health. EPA is working with Chemehuevi and Colorado River Indian Tribes to evaluate the effectiveness of using man-made floating vegetated islands to reduce the occurrences of these blooms in water within the tribes’ reservations. Read EPA Uses Floating Vegetated Islands to Remove Excess Nutrients from Water.
Helping Coastal Communities Address Beach Closures
November 19, 2018 - Tourism and recreation are critical to the economy and communities of Cape Cod, Massachusetts. A recent EPA study found that when popular Cape Cod beaches are closed for the day due to bacteria levels in the water, it can mean losses of more than $15,000 for the community. EPA researchers are currently conducting a survey across New England to learn about other issues that affect people’s decision to go to the beach and to understand how water quality impacts these communities. Read Helping Coastal Communities Address Beach Closures.
EPA’s Dr. Wayne Cascio Recognized for Investigating Links between Air Pollution and Heart Disease
November 19, 2018 - EPA researcher Dr. Wayne Cascio studies the health effects of environmental pollutants to inform risk assessment, risk management decisions, and improvement of public health and quality of life. Dr. Cascio received the Homer N. Calver Award from the American Public Health Association for his role leading EPA’s work to focus global attention on the link between air pollution and heart disease. Read EPA’s Dr. Wayne Cascio Recognized for Investigating Links between Air Pollution and Heart Disease.
Thankful for Science
November 16, 2018 - We’re thankful for our hardworking researchers that contribute to EPA’s mission to protect human and environmental health. Read Thankful for Science.
Helping Preserve and Promote the Cultural Significance of Kingsbury Bay and Grassy Point
November 1, 2018 - EPA and partners are restoring sites along the St. Louis River that have long suffered from pollution. These areas have traditionally provided space for spiritual reflection and other tribal uses for the Native American communities in the area. EPA researchers are working with Fond du Lac Band members so that tribal resources, culturally significant places, and traditional ecological knowledge are incorporated into recommendations for restoration plans. Read Helping Preserve and Promote the Cultural Significance of Kingsbury Bay and Grassy Point.
Evaluating Low-cost Air Sensor Performance Near Wildfires
November 1, 2018 - As wildfires become more frequent and severe, communities affected by wildfire smoke are concerned with air quality. Recent advances in sensor technology have led to a rise in the number of commercially available, low-cost air sensors that measure particulate matter, a harmful component of wildfire smoke. EPA researchers are working with partners to deploy and evaluate low-cost air sensors to determine if they can be used to reliably collect information about air quality in smoke-impacted areas. Read Evaluating Low-cost Air Sensor Performance Near Wildfires.
Onshore Crude Oil Decontamination Using a Water Security Test Bed
November 1, 2018 - Oil spills are threats to both ground and surface waters, which can ultimately impact drinking water. EPA researchers recently examined the effectiveness of flushing crude oil to remove any persistent oil in the pipeline, appliances, and premise plumbing at EPA’s water security test bed at the Idaho National Laboratory facility. Read Onshore Crude Oil Decontamination Using a Water Security Test Bed.
The Links Between Air Pollution and Childhood Asthma
October 22, 2018 - Research has long linked asthma with exposure to air pollution. The estimated six million children in the United States with asthma are especially vulnerable to air pollution. Read about three recent EPA studies on the link between childhood asthma and air pollution. Read The Links Between Air Pollution and Childhood Asthma.
Identifying the Best Lead Sampling Techniques to Protect Public Health
October 22, 2018 - If lead is found in drinking water, it is important to quickly identify where it is coming from within the water system. That can mean taking samples at every stage, from the distribution system all the way to the plumbing system inside the home. EPA researchers have determined the best lead sampling techniques to identify the source and protect public health. Read Identifying the Best Lead Sampling Techniques to Protect Public Health.
The Burden of Air Pollution on the Heart
October 22, 2018 - Air pollution can take a significant toll on the cardiovascular system. However, only three percent of patients with heart disease discuss how to reduce their exposure to air pollution with a healthcare professional. In a recent article, EPA researchers discuss strategies to reduce exposure and the health effects of air pollution. Read The Burden of Air Pollution on the Heart.
The Sum of the Parts: Developing a Systems-Level Approach to Protect Children's Health
October 22, 2018 - The total environment approach recognizes that stressors impacting childhood health and development are encountered across three broad areas: the built, natural, and social environments. Two recent literature reviews show how EPA is advancing the total environment model as a new frontier in children’s environmental health research. This research helps to improve community health, particularly for children and other vulnerable groups. Read The Sum of the Parts: Developing a Systems-Level Approach to Protect Children's Health.
The NIEHS/EPA Children’s Centers: 18 Years of Investing in Children’s Health
October 5, 2018 - Improving the health of children across every community is the singular focus of the NIEHS/EPA Children’s Centers. Through this partnership, teams of researchers investigate the links between the environment and children’s health in ways that directly inform actions that reduce risks and prevent disease. Learn about the impacts of the partnership over the last 18 years, including 46 grants totaling more than $300 million to 24 Centers through a highly competitive application process. Read The NIEHS/EPA Children’s Centers: 18 Years of Investing in Children’s Health.
New Testing Method for Lead and Arsenic in Contaminated Soil Saves Money and Protects Public Health
October 5, 2018 - Certain forms of arsenic and lead are not bioavailable, meaning they are not fully absorbed by the human body. EPA has developed a new testing method to quickly and inexpensively estimate the bioavailability of lead and arsenic in contaminated soil. The method, based on a “virtual stomach” that mimics human digestion, can save millions of dollars in clean-up costs by helping identify which soil needs to be removed from a contaminated site. Read New Testing Method for Lead and Arsenic in Contaminated Soil Saves Money and Protects Public Health.
A Conversation on the Smoke Sense Research Project for Wildland Fires
September 26, 2018 - Wildfire smoke can be a public health burden for communities across the United States. Last year, EPA researchers developed the Smoke Sense app, a mobile application that lets users learn about wildland fires and smoke health risks in their area and report health symptoms they experience. EPA’s Dr. Ana Rappold, the project’s lead scientist, explains what the team learned from last year’s pilot phase of the project and what they’ve changed for 2018. Read A Conversation on the Smoke Sense Research Project for Wildland Fires.
EPA Researcher Honored As Samuel J. Heyman Service to America Finalist
October 5, 2018 - How do you evaluate the potential effects of tens of thousands of substances that currently exist in our environment? EPA research toxicologist Gary Ankley was honored last week in Washington, DC, as a 2018 Career Achievement finalist for three decades of work to establish techniques and standards to identify dangerous chemicals and prevent them from contaminating America’s lakes and waterways. Read EPA Researcher Honored As Samuel J. Heyman Service to America Finalist.
EcoTox 5.0 Improves Access to Chemical Information on Ecological Species
September 25, 2018 - Are you interested in the potential ecological effects of chemicals? EPA’s web-based Ecotoxicology Knowledgebase houses toxicity effects data on over 11,000 chemicals and 12,000 species, including aquatic life, terrestrial plants, and wildlife. Users can explore the curated data on the effects, if any, of specific chemicals on different species of fish or native plants. Read EcoTox 5.0 Improves Access to Chemical Information on Ecological Species.
New GenRA Module in EPA’s CompTox Dashboard Will Help Predict Potential Chemical Toxicity
September 25, 2018 - The chemical read-across approach uses information about a chemical with known data to make a prediction about another chemical that is “similar” but does not have as much data. To improve this method, EPA researchers have developed an automated read-across tool called Generalized Read-Across. This work is part of EPA’s ongoing effort to develop faster methods to evaluate chemicals for potential health effects. Read New GenRA Module in EPA’s CompTox Dashboard Will Help Predict Potential Chemical Toxicity.
How Does Lightning Impact Air Pollution?
September 25, 2018 - Lightning-generated nitrogen oxides have a relatively small but potentially significant impact on ground-level ozone. EPA researchers are using innovative air quality models to measure these impacts. Read How Does Lightning Impact Air Pollution?
Wildland Fire Sensors Challenge: Winners Provide Real-time Systems for Measuring Pollutant Levels from Smoke
September 12, 2018 - Wildland fires pose many obstacles for air quality monitoring because of high concentrations of air pollutants, high temperatures, rugged terrain, and other challenges. EPA and partners created the Wildland Fire Sensors Challenge to develop air monitoring instruments that could handle these conditions. Read Wildland Fire Sensors Challenge: Winners Provide Real-time Systems for Measuring Pollutant Levels from Smoke.
EPA Grants Fund Researchers Working with Communities to Monitor Air Pollution in Washington and Pennsylvania
September 10, 2018 - EPA grantees are working in cities across the country to teach local residents about how to use low-cost air pollution sensors to monitor air quality. One grantee is working with a team to teach local students how to use low-cost air pollution sensors to monitor air quality in Washington’s lower Yakima Valley. Across the country, another grantee is working with residents to monitor air quality in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, a city that has struggled with exposure to air pollution for many years. Read EPA Grants Fund Researchers Working with Communities to Monitor Air Pollution in Washington and Pennsylvania.
From Brownfield to Breadbasket: Health Impact Assessments Help Communities Make Healthy Decisions
September 10, 2018 - Local and state officials are contemplating what to do with a vacant and once contaminated property located in downtown Dover, Delaware. EPA is helping officials make decisions about the site by conducting a rapid Health Impact Assessment, an approach for identifying how a proposed policy or project might impact the health of a community. Read From Brownfield to Breadbasket: Health Impact Assessments Help Communities Make Healthy Decisions.
Microbial Source Tracking: How did that get in there?
September 10, 2018 - An estimated 90 million illnesses each year are caused by exposure to microbial contaminants in U.S. recreational waters. EPA researchers have developed several tools to characterize the sources of microbial contamination. Understanding the contamination sources can help resource managers mitigate the effects of the pollution or stop it from entering the water in the first place. Read Microbial Source Tracking: How did that get in there?
EPA Researchers Partner with WaterStep to Deliver Clean Water During Emergencies
September 10, 2018 - Following a disaster, water systems can become flooded and unable to provide safe drinking water to communities. To address this challenge, EPA researchers partnered with WaterStep to develop a portable water treatment system that can quickly and cost-effectively provide safe drinking water to affected communities following a disaster. This partnership helped provide clean drinking water in the aftermath of the devastating hurricanes in Puerto Rico. Read EPA Researchers Partner with WaterStep to Deliver Clean Water During Emergencies.
EPA Researchers Develop Tool to Improve Water Quality
August 23, 2018 - Many communities face challenges when managing their water resources. EPA developed the Watershed Management Optimization Tool to help water resource managers and planners improve water quality. The tool was recently used to help communities in Massachusetts and Maryland. Read EPA Researchers Develop Tool to Improve Water Quality.
Back to School: Supporting Teachers with EPA STEM Educational Resources
August 23, 2018 - To help share EPA’s work with students of all ages, EPA researchers developed several E-STEM resources that can be used in formal and informal educational settings. Read Back to School: Supporting Teachers with EPA STEM Educational Resources.
Reducing PFAS in Drinking Water with Treatment Technologies
August 23, 2018 - Traditional drinking water treatment technologies are not able to remove per- and polyfluorinated substances, or PFAS, from water. EPA researchers are working to enhance water treatment approaches to remove PFAS compounds from drinking water. Read Reducing PFAS in Drinking Water with Treatment Technologies.
Teaming Up to Protect the Great Lakes
August 23, 2018 - As one of the world’s largest surface freshwater ecosystems, the Great Lakes have their share of water quality issues. As part of the Great Lakes Cooperative Science and Monitoring Initiative, EPA scientists have been using two research vessels and an autonomous glider to collect data on Lake Ontario all summer long. The data will help determine the overall health of the lake and which areas need to be prioritized for restoration. Read Teaming Up to Protect the Great Lakes.
EPA Scientists Develop New Methods to Evaluate Chemicals
August 13, 2018 - Some chemicals can disrupt the endocrine system, a complicated network of glands, hormones, and receptors that regulates biological processes in the body. EPA researchers are analyzing the use of a high-throughput screening assay that detects chemical effects on steroidogenesis, the production of steroid hormones from cholesterol. The new assay has potential to increase the efficiency of chemical screening efforts and fill data gaps for large numbers of chemicals using fewer resources. Read EPA Scientists Develop New Methods to Evaluate Chemicals.
EPA Researchers Use Innovative Approach to Find PFAS in the Environment
August 13, 2018 - Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, known as PFAS, are chemicals used in countless consumer products. With so many types of PFAS in use, it can be difficult to find out which ones are persisting in the environment. EPA is using a new approach, non-targeted analysis, to help communities determine potential PFAS exposure. Read EPA Researchers Use Innovative Approach to Find PFAS in the Environment.
Reducing Children’s Lead Exposure in Omaha, Nebraska
August 13, 2018 - For many years, EPA has been helping clean up properties in Omaha, Nebraska, affected by lead contamination from the operation of a lead refinery. EPA researchers are gathering data to ensure that these efforts are leading to decreased blood lead levels in the children that lived in the affected areas and determine whether further remediation is needed. This research has the potential to help protect children across the country in areas where not as much data is available. Read Reducing Children’s Lead Exposure in Omaha, Nebraska.
Guidelines for Measuring Changes in Seawater pH
August 13, 2018 - The eastern coastline of the United States is a key ecosystem for millions of people. EPA measures changes in the pH of seawater in these coastal and estuarine areas to ensure that this important ecosystem is protected. Because the pH of coastal waters can vary so greatly, EPA has published guidelines for doing your own measuring to increase our understanding of how water pH affects life in and around these areas. Read Guidelines for Measuring Changes in Seawater pH.
Evaluating the Effectiveness of Vacant Lots as Green Infrastructure in Buffalo, NY
July 30, 2018 - Rainfall replenishes water supplies and keeps our urban landscapes green, but even small storms can cause localized flooding and inundate sewer systems. EPA researchers and partners are determining the extent to which vacant lots around the city of Buffalo, NY, can function as green infrastructure by absorbing and filtering stormwater. Read Evaluating the Effectiveness of Vacant Lots as Green Infrastructure in Buffalo, NY.
Protecting Our Pets Through Research, Technology, and the National Pet Health Survey
July 30, 2018 - For those with pets, long summer days may mean more time outside for adventures with your best pal. But all that fun in the sun can impact our health, as well as that of our animal friends, by increasing our potential for exposure to things like tick- or waterborne-illnesses. EPA is working with partners to protect the health of people and their pets. Read Protecting Our Pets Through Research, Technology, and the National Pet Health Survey.
Revealing the Complicated Nature of Tap Water Lead Contamination: A Madison, Wisconsin, Case Study
July 30, 2018 - Lead can contaminate drinking water as the water moves through pipes with lead in them. In some cases, lead levels in drinking water can remain high even after the pipes in the system have been replaced. EPA researchers worked with the city of Madison, Wisconsin, to determine why elevated lead levels can persist for so long. Read Revealing the Complicated Nature of Tap Water Lead Contamination: A Madison, Wisconsin, Case Study.
Understanding How Pesticide Exposure Affects Honeybee Colonies
July 30, 2018 - Due to multiple factors, bees have declined across North America and Europe. EPA researchers looked at pesticide exposure to provide scientists with a clearer understanding of how it affects honeybees at the colony level. Read Understanding How Pesticide Exposure Affects Honeybee Colonies.
EPA’s ENTACT Study Breaks New Ground with Non-Targeted Research
July 30, 2018 - How do you test for something when you don’t even know it’s there? EPA is using non-targeted analysis methods to identify unknown chemicals in samples, without having a preconceived idea of what chemicals are present. These innovative methods may make chemical safety assessment faster than traditional methods. Read EPA’s ENTACT Study Breaks New Ground with Non-Targeted Research.
Baseball Bats, Bunnies, and Christmas Trees: Exploring the Benefits of Ecosystems
July 16, 2018 - Could baseball's MVP be your local forest? For many baseball players, the wood of choice for baseball bats is white ash, a native of the forests of eastern and central North America. EPA scientist Tara Greaver and colleagues explored the cascade of impacts of reduced white ash and balsam fir trees on forest ecosystems and human well-being. Read Baseball Bats, Bunnies, and Christmas Trees: Exploring the Benefits of Ecosystems.
EPA Scientists Collaborate with States to Protect Long Island Sound Air Quality
July 16, 2018 - The Long Island Sound is home to a diverse array of aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. This unique geography leads to high ground-level ozone concentrations along the shorelines of New York, Connecticut, and Rhode Island. EPA is working with partners to better understand the complex interaction of emissions, chemistry, and meteorological factors contributing to these high levels. Read EPA Scientists Collaborate with States to Protect Long Island Sound Air Quality.
EPA Researchers Develop Strategies and Methods to Help Predict Harmful Algal Blooms in Kansas
July 16, 2018 - Harmful algal blooms produce cyanotoxins which can contaminate water and impact tourism, the fishing industry, and recreational activities. At Milford Lake—which discharges into the Kansas River, a drinking water source for more than 800,000 people—EPA researchers are working with the state of Kansas and other partners to determine ways to monitor, prevent, and predict harmful algal blooms. Read EPA Researchers Develop Strategies and Methods to Help Predict Harmful Algal Blooms in Kansas.
Supporting States, Tribes, and Communities on PFAS
June 18, 2018 - EPA researchers are using their expertise to help states, tribes, and local governments with per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances. These chemicals, known as PFAS, do not break down easily in the environment and can have implications to human and environmental health. EPA researchers are helping communities identify and reduce PFAS chemicals at sites around the country. Read Supporting States, Tribes, and Communities on PFAS.
Tracking Emissions Using New Fenceline Monitoring Technology
June 18, 2018 - For communities living close to industry, air pollution emissions may be a concern to health and well-being. EPA researchers are working with industry, states, and communities to develop low-cost and portable technologies that can be deployed next to an industrial complex for emissions testing. Read Tracking Emissions Using New Fenceline Monitoring Technology.
Developing Organs On-a-Chip: Chemical Safety Research Collaborators Provide Research Review
June 18, 2018 - EPA is working with grantees to develop predictive toxicology tools. These virtual tissue models, sometime referred to as “Organs on-a-chip,” provide a pathway for the development of new prediction techniques. They also have the potential to reduce dependence on animal study data and contribute to faster chemical risk assessments. Read Developing Organs On-a-Chip: Chemical Safety Research Collaborators Provide Research Review.
Simulating Oil Spill Burns to Improve Clean Up and Protect Air Quality
June 18, 2018 - Burning oil spills has been a fast and relatively safe way to reduce the impact on water quality and marine life. However, burning oil can impact air quality and the oily residues left behind in the water can cause environmental damage. Read Simulating Oil Spill Burns to Improve Clean Up and Protect Air Quality.
Chemical Safety Research Advances in Support of Lautenberg Act
June 18, 2018 - Since the Nation’s primary chemical management law, the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), was amended in 2016, EPA researchers have been providing support for several important TSCA activities. EPA has met several key milestones and continues to move the state-of-the science forward. Read Chemical Safety Research Advances in Support of Lautenberg Act.
Measuring Air Pollution in Southern California Using Low-Cost Sensors
June 4, 2018 - Small, portable, low-cost air quality sensors are providing new opportunities to assess air quality. To assist local and state air quality managers, community groups, and others, EPA is evaluating and developing air sensor technologies and providing information on using and interpreting sensor data. EPA recently collaborated with the South Coast Air Quality Management District’s Air Quality Sensor Performance Evaluation Center in California to study the performance of some of these sensors. Read Measuring Air Pollution in Southern California Using Low-Cost Sensors.
To Leave or Not to Leave: The Heart Cockle and Green Macroalgae Blooms
June 4, 2018 - In small estuaries of the Pacific Northwest, seasonal blooms of green macroalgae are primarily associated with natural nutrient input. This environment allowed EPA researchers to study the effects of macroalgal blooms on an ecosystem, without the additional influence of chemical co-contaminants that are often present in more populated areas. The results of the study will help researchers better understand the effects of nutrient pollution on important fishery species, like the heart cockle. Read To Leave or Not to Leave: The Heart Cockle and Green Macroalgae Blooms.
Keeping the Water Flowing: Helping Water Treatment Facilities Handle Harmful Algal Blooms
June 4, 2018 - Sometimes there is a simple way to avoid the health effects of harmful algal blooms — just stay out of the water. But when that water serves as a drinking water source, just waiting it out can leave thousands without a basic necessity: clean, healthy water. That’s why EPA researchers are helping water treatment facilities keep the water flowing even in the face of harmful algal blooms. Read Keeping the Water Flowing: Helping Water Treatment Facilities Handle Harmful Algal Blooms.
The One Health Approach to Harmful Algal Blooms
May 21, 2018 - The “One Health” approach recognizes that human health is connected to the health of animals and the environment. An article by EPA researcher Betsy Hilborn describes how using a One Health approach could help address and reduce the risks associated with harmful algal blooms on human, animal, and environmental health. Read The One Health Approach to Harmful Algal Blooms.
EnviroAtlas in the Classroom: New K-16 Lesson Plans that Empower Tomorrow’s Decision-Makers
May 21, 2018 - Many students are familiar with common chronic illnesses, but may be unaware of how the surrounding environment is linked to these conditions. EPA’s new suite of educational materials aims to address that knowledge gap with classroom-ready lessons that teach students about the environment’s effects on their daily lives, including their health and well-being. Read EnviroAtlas in the Classroom: New K-16 Lesson Plans that Empower Tomorrow’s Decision-Makers.
EPA’s EnviroAtlas Publishes Data on Six New Urban Areas
May 21, 2018 - All communities rely on clean air, clean water, green space, and other natural amenities for their economic sustainability and quality of life. However, these factors aren’t always fully understood or considered when making planning decisions. EPA’s EnviroAtlas combines a variety of data to help inform decision makers. EPA recently added data for six new urban areas, including Baltimore and Chicago. Read EPA’s EnviroAtlas Publishes Data on Six New Urban Areas.
Working with Communities to Solve a Big Problem in Small Water Systems
May 21, 2018 - Ammonia is found at high levels in many agricultural areas where groundwater is the primary drinking water source. To combat this problem, EPA researchers developed affordable and easy-to-use biological drinking water treatment systems. EPA successfully partnered with a community in Iowa in a year-long pilot project to test the technology. Read Working with Communities to Solve a Big Problem in Small Water Systems.
EPA Tool Helps Chicago Account for and Visualize Urban Water Flows
May 7, 2018 - Delivering drinking water and treating sewage for millions of people, in addition to managing stormwater across hundreds of square miles, requires an extensive network of pipes, pumps, and treatment facilities. New EPA software can help planning agencies and water utilities better understand the flows of water into, within, and out of their cities. Read EPA Tool Helps Chicago Account for and Visualize Urban Water Flows.
Tracking Smoke with Models to Protect Public Health
April 23, 2018 - EPA scientists are developing sophisticated computer models to track chemical composition and transport of smoke plumes and predict what areas could be impacted. This information can assist local officials in issuing public health advisories. Read Tracking Smoke with Models to Protect Public Health.
Advancing Sensor Technology to Monitor Wildfires
April 6, 2018 - EPA and partners are looking at ways to use miniature sensors to monitor air quality near wildfires. Data from these small sensors can complement measurements obtained from more complex regulatory-grade monitors that are stationary or not easily transported. Read Advancing Sensor Technology to Monitor Wildfires.
Inside EPA: A Closer Look at Some of EPA’s Laboratory Research Facilities
April 6, 2018 - Scientists and engineers in EPA’s Office of Research and Development are conducting research to address geographically-based environmental issues and advance science to support public health and environmental protection. Read Inside EPA: A Closer Look at Some of EPA’s Laboratory Research Facilities.
EPA Works with State and Local Leaders to Protect Public Health
April 6, 2018 - EPA partners with public health organizations to share science and ensure a healthy future for our nation’s communities. Read about some of the positive impacts these partnerships have had. Read EPA Works with State and Local Leaders to Protect Public Health.
Celebrate Women's History Month with EPA
March 26, 2018 - March is Women's History Month, and in celebration, here are a few amazing women who help EPA achieve its mission to protect human health and the environment. Learn more about their work and read their advice for anyone interested in a career in science. Read Celebrate Women's History Month with EPA.
A DIY Dream: Build Your Own Village Green Air Monitoring Station
March 26, 2018 - If you live in a city with a Village Green station, monitoring air quality can be as easy as a walk in the park. EPA’s Village Green stations are park benches with innovative air quality measurement systems built right into them. Anyone interested in establishing their own Village Green-like station can learn how by viewing the new instructional manual and video. Read A DIY Dream: Build Your Own Village Green Air Monitoring Station.
EPA Combines Expertise with New Zealand Company to Advance Air Sensor Technologies
March 26, 2018 - Low-cost air sensor technologies continue to become more readily available. But the need to accurately characterize the air quality data remains a challenge. EPA researchers are working with Aeroqual, a New Zealand-based company specializing in the development of air quality monitoring equipment, to evaluate and advance these new technologies. Read EPA Combines Expertise with New Zealand Company to Advance Air Sensor Technologies.
New MicroTrac Tool Enhances Air Pollution Exposure Assessments
March 26, 2018 - Over the course of a day, we may encounter different levels of air pollutants. Tracking these exposures is important to understanding their impacts on our health. EPA researchers developed the MicroTrac model to enhance exposure assessments by correctly identifying where people are when they are exposed to air pollution. Read New MicroTrac Tool Enhances Air Pollution Exposure Assessments.
EPA Researchers Publish Paper Analyzing Household Products for Chemical Presence
March 13, 2018 - Typically, when a product is screened for chemicals, the researcher is only looking for the presence of a few specific chemicals. Using a new approach, called suspect screening, EPA researchers are testing household products for all chemicals present. These data can be used to prioritize which chemicals should be screened for health risks. Read EPA Researchers Publish Paper Analyzing Household Products for Chemical Presence.
The Science Behind Wildfire Smoke’s Toxicity
March 13, 2018 - Wildfire smoke is dangerous. It’s also a major component of air pollution. EPA researchers are investigating whether particles in wildfire smoke have different health effects depending on the type of wood burned and stage of the fire such as flaming or smoldering. Read The Science Behind Wildfire Smoke’s Toxicity.
EPA Toxicologists Focus Innovative Research on PFAS Compounds
March 13, 2018 - One of the biggest challenges in understanding potential hazards of exposure to PFAS chemicals is the lack of toxicity information. EPA researchers have partnered with researchers at the National Toxicology Program to develop a tiered testing approach to quickly generate toxicity and kinetic information for approximately 75 PFAS compounds. Read EPA Toxicologists Focus Innovative Research on PFAS Compounds.
EPA Partners with Unilever to Advance Chemical Screening
March 13, 2018 - EPA’s researchers are combining chemical data from newly developed testing and screening techniques with Unilever data on exposure information from use of consumer products. This collaboration has the potential to provide better ways to evaluate the potential health effects of new ingredients and chemicals. Read EPA Partners with Unilever to Advance Chemical Screening.
ECOTOX Update Improves Search for Environmental Chemical Toxicity Data
March 13, 2018 - EPA has updated ECOTOX, a publicly available application that provides environmental chemical toxicity data used to assess the effects of chemical exposures to aquatic life, terrestrial plants, and wildlife. ECOTOX 5.0 is now available in beta version, offering an opportunity to provide feedback before this updated version becomes final. Read ECOTOX Update Improves Search for Environmental Chemical Toxicity Data.
Understanding PFAS in the Environment
Updated December 21, 2018 - Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, known as PFAS, are chemicals that are used in a variety of consumer and industrial products. PFAS persist in the environment and can build up in the bodies of people and animals, harming the environment and human health. EPA scientists and engineers are working to help communities make informed decisions about PFAS in the environment. Read Understanding PFAS in the Environment.
Launch of Village Blue Web Application Shares Water Monitoring Data with Baltimore Community
February 26, 2018 - EPA is working with USGS and several local and state organizations to provide real-time water quality monitoring data to the Baltimore, Maryland, community. The project, Village Blue, has a new web application that displays data collected via two sensors mounted underwater in Baltimore Harbor. Read Launch of Village Blue Web Application Shares Water Monitoring Data with Baltimore Community.
EPA’s Air Sensor Toolbox Offers New Tools for Community-led Air Monitoring
February 26, 2018 - Monitoring your local air quality just got a little easier. EPA‘s Air Sensor Toolbox has two new tools that enable citizen scientists to more effectively collect and interpret air quality data in their communities. Read EPA’s Air Sensor Toolbox Offers New Tools for Community-led Air Monitoring.
Are Greenspaces Good for Your Heart?
February 26, 2018 - Neighborhood forests may be good for our hearts. Two new EPA studies examine the links between greenspaces and healthy communities. Read Are Greenspaces Good for Your Heart?.
Engaging Historically Black Colleges and Universities through Science, Technology, Engineering and Math Education and Community Engagement
February 26, 2018 - Encouraging the next generation of scientists is essential in addressing future environmental challenges. Through its Community Engagement and Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) Outreach Program, EPA has been engaging with college and graduate students at Historically Black Colleges and Universities in North Carolina. Read Engaging Historically Black Colleges and Universities through Science, Technology, Engineering and Math Education and Community Engagement.
How Can You Protect Your Heart from Air Pollution?
February 7, 2018 - EPA researchers are studying whether eating certain foods or taking supplements might protect against the onslaught of air pollution. They are also testing innovative technologies that can be used to teach people about potential risks. Read How Can You Protect Your Heart from Air Pollution?
EPA’s Stormwater Calculator Gets An Update
January 26, 2018 - Stormwater runoff is one of the fastest growing sources of pollution. In areas with more rooftops and roads than natural surfaces, a big storm can mean flooding and increased pollution reaching our waterways. EPA's National Stormwater Calculator, a tool to help reduce runoff using low-impact development tools, is now available as a web application that can be used on desktop and mobile devices. Read EPA’s Stormwater Calculator Gets An Update.
Pre-Modeling Tool Helps Guide Contaminated Site Cleanup Plans
January 24, 2018 - EPA is committed to advancing the cleanup of contaminated sites. EPA researcher Dale Werkema and collaborators at the U.S. Geological Survey recently released an easy-to-use, spreadsheet-based tool to help site managers and others explore the value of using electrical resistivity imaging before investing time and money into the technique to guide cleanup activities. Read Pre-Modeling Tool Helps Guide Contaminated Site Cleanup Plans.
The Danger of Wildland Fire Smoke to Public Health
January 30, 2018 - Wildfires are increasing in intensity and size, contributing to impaired air quality for people living near or downwind of the fires. In a new article, EPA researcher Wayne Cascio provides insights into the state of knowledge about the health effects of smoke from wildfires and describes needed research. Read The Danger of Wildland Fire Smoke to Public Health.
Partnering with States and Local Communities on Water Reuse
January 26, 2018 - We know we can reduce how much water we use, but what about reusing and recycling it? EPA is working with San Francisco and other state and local governments around the country to make sure we can do that safely. Researchers are currently modeling exposure risks to create a regulatory risk-based framework so that water can be recycled and reused safely. Read Partnering with States and Local Communities on Water Reuse.
Study Shows Low Levels of Air Pollution Pose Risk for Older Adults
January 12, 2018 - Studies have shown the harmful effects of long-term exposure to air pollution, but there is little research on the effects of exposure to air pollution at levels below the National Ambient Air Quality Standards. To fill this gap, EPA grantee Francesca Dominici and colleagues conducted a nationwide study to examine the link between mortality and long-term exposure to ozone and PM2.5 at levels lower than the current annual standards. The results show that even low levels of air pollution raise mortality risk for older adults. Read Study Shows Low Levels of Air Pollution Pose Risk for Older Adults.
EPA Researchers: 2017 Reflections and Hopes for 2018
January 11, 2018 - We asked EPA researchers to share their 2017 accomplishments and goals for the next year. Read about what they are most proud of in the past year and what they are looking forward to in 2018. Read EPA Researchers: 2017 Reflections and Hopes for 2018.
Research to Support the Toxic Substances Control Act
January 11, 2018 - Last year, Congress passed a bill to reform the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), which helps EPA protect American families from the potential health effects of chemicals.To make sure TSCA is enforced effectively, EPA requires the best scientific data on chemical safety. EPA researchers are developing and improving tools to provide chemical data and help implement TSCA. Read Research to Support the Toxic Substances Control Act.