Scientists are taking a closer look at two types of chemicals we encounter daily and how they could be influencing teenagers' bodies in unexpected ways. PFAS and phthalates are found in everything from non-stick pans to plastic toys and personal care products. These substances are so common that nea
Every day, tiny amounts of man-made chemicals slip into water and soil, slowly building up in our bodies. These substances, called PFAS, are found in everything from food wrappers to firefighting foam. Scientists recently focused on one specific PFAS called OBS and its surprising effect on the kidne
When organic waste like food scraps and yard trimmings gets turned into compost, it doesn’t just turn into soil. It also mixes with biosolids—treated sewage sludge—creating a nutrient-rich product used in gardens and farms. But there’s a catch: compost can contain PFAS, a group of man-made chemicals
Maine’s bees buzz not only for honey but also for the health of our land. They act like tiny detectives, gathering pollen and nectar that reveal hidden chemicals in soil, water, and air. Because of this role, a beekeeper from Portland who measures dangerous PFAS levels in his own hives sees the urge
Chemicals labeled “forever” seem to break all the rules—they stick around for decades, building up in soil and bodies instead of fading away like normal substances. In farming, these same chemicals are sneaking into common weed killers such as glyphosate, not by accident but as part of a strategy so
Rivers hide more than just fish and rocks. They also carry invisible chemicals from everyday products. One group, called PFAS, sticks around for years and mixes into water systems. Scientists recently tested a common underwater plant, Potamogeton crispus, to see if it could act like a warning sign f
Most people don’t know it, but tiny amounts of PFAS—man-made chemicals in everything from nonstick pans to firefighting foams—are likely floating around in their blood. Tests on over 10, 000 American blood samples found these substances almost everywhere. Out of nearly 10, 600 people, only 19 had ju
Europe aims to cut down on forever chemicals, but one big exception could ruin the plan. PFAS are man-made compounds that never break down. They linger in water, soil, and even our bodies. The EU wants to limit their spread, yet factories can still pump out endless amounts under current rules. The
Scientists recently found traces of PFOS, a long-lasting chemical, inside honey and the bees that make it. These substances stick around in nature for years, building up in the environment and even inside living things. For bees, even small doses can mess with their growth. Young bees exposed to PFO
The city council approved a $2. 65 million plan to buy new protective clothing for its 270 firefighters after tests showed that their current gear contains harmful PFAS chemicals. These substances, known as “forever chemicals, ” do not break down in the body and can raise cancer risks. Firefig
