Екологічний Комітет

Environmental News

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2017 Spring Planting Party

May 29, 2017

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The Eco-Committee sponsored a Spring Planting Party, which took place on Friday, May 19th at the Ukrainian American Cultural Center of NJ.  Thanks to Xpuctia Stasiuk, Petrusia Paslawsky, Lida Chernichenko, Danusia Mandicz, Lyalya Nahnybida, and FOS Chrystia Kochan we raised $120 for future endeavors. Everyone went home with fabulous planters filled with beautiful flowers, cool succulents, and delicious herbs as well as a handy list of  pollinator-friendly plants. 

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By Louisa Kaminska at 10:57pm 

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Spartanky Beekeepers News 

December 4, 2014

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Together, we’re making progress on bee-harming pesticides

 

Dear Marta,

Exactly one year ago, Europe said no to neonics.

Today, these systemic, bee-harming pesticides are no longer allowed in several communities across the U.S., Minnesota officials are considering a phaseout, and President Obama’s Pollinator Health Task Force has been ordered to come up with solutions. This progress is real, but there’s more work to do.

We can’t let up now!» “The “Big 6” pesticide corporations are spending big money to keep their products on the market. Monsanto, Syngenta, Bayer and the rest are now investing millions to block communities and states from taking action on pesticides — and to deflect attention from their bee-harming products. With your gift this Giving Tuesday, we’ll keep them on the defense!

When it comes to neonics, or neonicotinoid pesticides, industry pushback is clear at every level. In Europe, Syngenta and Bayer are challenging the two-year moratorium in court. Here in the U.S., Big 6 lobbyists showed up in force at Pollinator Health Task Force “listening sessions” last month — but thanks to thousands of PAN activists like you, the voices of bee-loving citizens across the country were in the mix too.

Help PAN push back» The science is more clear than ever: neonicotinoid pesticides play a key role in the dramatic losses beekeepers are continuing to see across the country. With your help, we’ll keep shining a light on industry shenanigans — and keep pressing for a thriving, just food system that’s healthier for us all. Donate today!

Thanks so much for all you do.

Warmly,

Judy Hatcher, Executive Director
Pesticide Action Network

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By Louisa Kaminska at 11:49pm 

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Non-styrofoam bowls and recylcing containers for Vovcha Tropa

August 8, 2013

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The Eco Committee committed to helping Vovcha Tropa transition away from styrofoam products in the kitchen.  We coordinated delivery of samples of non-styrofoam products during 2013 summer tabory, so OTK could test them in a real tabir environment.  Four companies sent various products including plates, bowls, and cups.  Based on their feedback on the products, the committee ordered 1,000 non-styrofoam bowls for use during the 2014 tabir season.  In addition to the bowls, the committee donated three new "MegaBins" for recycling use at the oselia.

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By Louisa Kaminska at 1:44am

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Natural (and effective!) mosquito repellents

May 24, 2013

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Mosquitoes can ruin a summer evening in the backyard.  But why deal with toxic sprays or stinky candles?  These plants safely and effectively repel the pesky bugs:  catnip, rosemary, marigolds, lemongrass, wormwood, and mint.  From Mother Earth Living. 

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By Louisa Kaminska at 12:44am

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Recycle your Ziploc bags

February 6, 2013

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Did you know Ziploc brand bags can be recycled?  Simply visit just about any store that offers a plastic-bag recycling program and place your used Ziploc® Bags (clean and dry) in the same bins as those plastic shopping bags.   

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By Louisa Kaminska at 8:18pm

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New pesticides threaten US bees

February 6, 2013

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A number of Spartanky have an interest in bees and beekeeping, so here's some bee-related news.....  We know nutrition and disease are contributing factors in declining bee populations, however, studies clearly show that systemic pesticides also play a key role.  The Pesticide Action Network recommends discontinuing use of neonicotinoid pesticides, which have proven harmful to bees in particular.  While use of these pesticides is being curbed in , the US Environmental Protection Agency is considering conditional use of additional, new bee-toxic pesticides to the agricultural market.  You may wish to add your voice to those urging the EPA to keep this off the market by following the link to the public comment page before February 12.

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By Louisa Kaminska at 8:10pm

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Compelling Science - protect kids from pesticides

October 11, 2012

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Pesticides aren't the only driver of a spike in health problems for kids, but scientists agree a combination of genetics and environmental factors are contributing factors.  According to Pesticide Action Network, the science linking exposure to neurotoxic pesticides to damage to developing brain and nervous systems is especially strong.  Public health experts are raising the alarm about a “silent pandemic” of learning disabilities and disorders undermining the potential of an entire generation of children.

A few other specific findings from the report:

• 400,000 to 600,000 of the 4 million U.S. children born each year are affected by some kind of developmental disability — a 17% rise in the past 15 years. Many recent studies link exposure to pesticides — even at very low levels — with increased risk of ADHD, autism and drops in IQ levels.

• More than 10,000 children are now diagnosed with cancer every year, and incidence of leukemia and childhood brain tumors, the two most common types of childhood cancer, have risen 40% and 50%, respectively since 1975. Studies suggest that exposure to pesticides during pregnancy and early childhood are contributing to this trend.

• Today, more than 7 million U.S. children are affected by asthma, up from an estimated 2 million in 1980. Emerging science points to pesticides as a possible contributing factor.

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By Louisa Kaminska at 7:12am

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Little changes, big companies 

September 6, 2012

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Large corporations are responding to consumer - and investor - demands for more environmentally responsible policies and practices. This year McDonald's announced a test in which polystyrene cups will be replaced with  paper cups in 2,000 restaurants across America.  Reusable cups are best for hot beverages, but paper is better than polystyrene as it's more easily recycled and decomposes faster in landfills.  In Europe, Nestle is removing all artificial food dyes and additives  from 79 of its candy products in response to consumer demand.

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By Louisa Kaminska at 6:30am

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What's in your lunchbox? Pesticides!

September 6, 2012

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Pesticides are on our food, even after washing; in our bodies, for years; and in our environment, traveling many miles on wind, water and dust. What’s On My Food? is a searchable database designed to make the public problem of pesticide exposure visible and more understandable.Check the database before packing the kids' school lunch, to make better informed choices.

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By Louisa Kaminska at 6:26am 

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Earth Day is every day

April 17, 2012

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Earth Day is celebrated on April 22, but we can adopt simple practices every day to help protect the planet and be better stewards of our resources.  How Stuff Works lists Ten Family Activities for Earth Day.  Check them out! LK 

By Louisa Kaminska at 1:18am