Are you unknowingly exposing yourself to forever chemicals through your favourite cosmetics? Many personal care products contain toxic substances that can penetrate your skin, posing serious risks to your health. In this eye-opening interview, I sat down with Dr Oddny Ragnarsdóttir, whose groundbreaking research reveals alarming facts about this pressing issue. We’ll dive into the shocking truth about forever chemicals in cosmetics, her startling findings, and the research methods behind them #pfas #cosmetics #healthrisks #science #foreverchemicals #beauty

You may have heard of PFAS, also known as "forever chemicals," but how much do you really know about them? These chemicals are found in everyday items—from non-stick cookware to water-resistant fabrics—and are linked to harmful health effects. Yet, despite all the media attention, there are still more questions than answers, especially when it comes to protecting ourselves and our families.

To help us navigate this complex topic, I spent 30 minutes with Dr. Daniel Drage, an Associate Professor at the University of Birmingham who has spent decades researching persistent organic pollutants like PFAS. In this video, we’ll dive into what PFAS are, their potential risks, and most importantly, how we can minimise exposure in our daily lives.

If you care about the health of your loved ones, this is a conversation you can’t afford to miss. Listen, share with those who need to know, and feel free to ask questions or leave your thoughts in the comments below! #foreverchemicals #facts #water #pollution

Join us as we delve into the fascinating history of Earth at the Lapworth Museum of Geology, University of Birmingham. With collections spanning over 140 years, the museum offers a unique glimpse into the formation and evolution of our planet.

Explore the awe-inspiring replica skeleton of the Allosaurus, a reminder of the dramatic climate shifts that led to the extinction of these mighty creatures. Discover the incredible Pteranodon, showcasing the resilience and vulnerability of species to environmental changes.

Reflect on the evolution of humans, from early hominins in Africa to modern Homo sapiens, and understand the adaptability that has enabled our species to thrive. Learn how our ancestors' ability to manipulate their environment has led to significant advancements but also poses challenges in today's rapidly changing climate.

Drawing inspiration from Maya Angelou's words, this episode emphasizes the importance of being present and proactive in making our world a better place for future generations.

We all love our gadgets, but what happens when they're no longer useful to us? This episode delves into the growing problem of electronic waste, or e-waste, and its shocking impact on our environment.

According to a UN report, e-waste skyrocketed to 62 billion kilograms in 2022 alone, equivalent to filling up 1.5 million mega trucks that could wrap around the planet. Disturbingly, less than a quarter of this waste is recycled, with much of it ending up in landfills, releasing harmful chemicals into our ecosystems.

Join us as we explore the consequences of e-waste, how it affects our water systems and food chain, and the role we can play in mitigating this crisis. From choosing durable products to supporting eco-friendly companies and utilizing e-waste recycling programs, there are steps we can all take to make a difference.

Learn practical tips such as extending the lifespan of your devices, considering refurbished electronics, and raising awareness about e-waste. Together, we can contribute to a more sustainable future. Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more eco insights.

Welcome to ecoLEAD! In this episode, we delve into a highly demanded green skill that can help you earn between £24k to £40k in the UK and $53k to $59k in the US. With the global push towards sustainable energy, the demand for renewable energy technicians is skyrocketing.

Learn about the essential technical and soft skills needed for this role, including strong understanding of electrical systems, troubleshooting, and repair of wind turbines, and knowledge of safety protocols. Discover how online platforms like Coursera and EDX offer accessible courses to help you get started.

We also discuss the importance of certifications from bodies like the North America Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) and the Association of Energy Engineers. Gain practical experience through internships, apprenticeships, and volunteering opportunities with organizations like the National Renewable Energy Laboratory and Engineers Without Borders.

Finally, explore effective ways to land a job in this field through job boards, networking, and professional organizations. Embark on a rewarding career path as a renewable energy technician and contribute to a sustainable future!

Links:

Coursera: https://www.coursera.org/courses?query=renewable%20energy

edx: https://www.edx.org/learn/renewable-energy

AEE: https://education.aeecenter.org/products/certified-renewable-energy-professional-rep-training-program-february-2024

NABCEP: https://www.nabcep.org/certifications/

OPENLEARN: https://www.open.edu/openlearn/mod/oucontent/view.php?id=73747

The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL): https://www.nrel.gov/careers/internships.html

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/irena_renewableenergy-activity-7014165845622857728-k-xf/

IRENA - International Renewable Energy Agency: https://www.irena.org/About/Employment

Engineers Without Borders: https://ewb.org.au/volunteer/

In this compelling episode of ecoLEAD, host Onoja Simeon engages in an insightful conversation with Dr. Abafe, a renowned researcher in environmental sciences. Together, they explore Dr. Abafe's groundbreaking research on the interactions between chemicals in microplastics and human skin, particularly focusing on Brominated flame retardants added to these plastics during manufacturing.

Dr Abafe shares his journey to becoming an environmental scientist, detailing his motivations and the significance of his work. The episode delves into the methodology and striking findings of Dr Abafe's study, shedding light on how everyday exposure to microplastics can lead to significant human health risks.

Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the different routes of exposure, the importance of minimizing contact with microplastics, and practical steps individuals can take to protect themselves. The conversation also touches on the broader implications of microplastic pollution and the need for regulatory measures based on toxicological evidence.

Join us for this eye-opening discussion that emphasises the collective responsibility we all share in making sustainable choices to mitigate the impact of microplastics on human health.

Please check out the paper here

Dive into the world of citizen science with Citizen Science Unleashed: Small Steps, Big Impact! In this episode, we explore how everyday observations can lead to significant global changes. From noticing your local environment to participating in projects like the citizen-based mosquito monitoring system, your contributions can help tackle public health crises like malaria and Zika. Join us as we discuss platforms like Zooniverse that offer a variety of projects where anyone can become a researcher, regardless of their background. Discover how you can get involved, make new discoveries, and contribute to research that shapes our understanding of the world. Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube @ecoDr1 for more insights and visuals. Let's make a difference, one observation at a time.

Welcome to ecoLEAD! I'm Onoja Simeon, your guide to making eco-friendly choices without needing a PhD. Whether you're Joe from down the street or Ada trying to shop smarter, this podcast is for you. Join us as we break down environmental research into simple, actionable tips with a touch of humour.

Sustainability is more than a buzzword—it's about everyday decisions, like whether to buy that new gadget or opt for a sustainably sourced product. Did you know that 58% of consumers prioritize durability and 39% value repairability when shopping? Or that our choices can impact rainforests and wildlife?

Tune in to discover how your small changes can lead to big impacts. From responsibly sourced coffee to eco-friendly shoes, we'll explore what it means to make greener choices. Stay curious, stay informed, and let's make the world a better place, one decision at a time.

Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share ecoLEAD with your friends. For more details on the research and findings, check out the full report by Deloitte here.

#Sustainability #EcoFriendly #GreenLiving #ResponsibleConsumerism #Podcast