What would you do if you discovered that a ‘natural’ skincare brand you trust was using an ingredient that’s known to have carcinogenic effects? Some of us click on products online and read the reviews, thinking, “this will do for me!” Sometimes we order it without giving much thought to the ingredients, we’re sold … Continued
We usually place our trust in manufacturers to make toys that are safe for infants and children to play with, but in 2022 toys were top of the list of dangerous product alerts in the European Union – a staggering 22% of all safety alerts were for toys. A survey carried out by the British … Continued
In June CRUK published their finding that cancer rates have risen by 22% in people aged between 25 and 49 years of age over the years between the 1990’s and 2018. It represents an unexpected rise, and larger than any seen in other age groups. The trend suggests that more younger adults may be getting … Continued
Microfibres are microplastics measuring 5mm or less that are shed from clothing during wear and washing. Known as ‘secondary’ microplastics they are the result of primary plastic fibres breaking down. Synthetic fibres are made from chemicals to form plastic-like materials frequently used in everyday clothing, sports apparel, and period pants. The extent to which … Continued
This half term sees the return of National Children’s Gardening Week which aims to help children to have fun in the garden and learn how to carry out simple, quick gardening projects. As summer approaches there’s never been a better time to get children out into the garden and outdoor spaces. Spending time in green spaces … Continued
Thousands of everyday products rely on chemical substances added during manufacture to enhance their performance such as extending shelf life, increasing crop yields, adding water and stain resistance, and flexibility – for example plastics that bend without breaking, and toiletries that can be absorbed more readily. We’re all familiar with products with complicated labels … Continued
This week sees the return of National Gardening Week just as temperatures finally start to rise! The Royal Horticultural Society’s theme this year is Knowledge is Flower’ designed to help demystify some of the myths and truths about gardening, and how to avoid common pitfalls for gardening novices and experts alike. It includes guidance about the … Continued
Period products are a necessity for women and girls. But they’ve come under scrutiny recently as researchers investigate what’s in them, and whether there might be any effects on female health from the chemical substances used in them. Are there any health risks? Period products come into direct into skin contact, so any chemical … Continued
Microplastics are everywhere – in our water and food, everyday household items, beauty products like shampoo, children’s toys, our home furnishings, and our rivers. Microplastics can also pollute our indoor air. So what is known about the effects of microplastics on human cells? A study led by researchers at Hull York Medical School was … Continued
Thousands of chemicals are manufactured from fossil fuels including oil, gas, and coal. It’s estimated that there are 350,000 petrochemicals are in use across the world as production levels have grown dramatically since the 1950’s. Petrochemicals are used in the manufacture of thousands of everyday products, from cars to carpets, plastics, cosmetics, toiletries and fragrances, … Continued
