EarthTalk®
Dear EarthTalk: How are efforts to electrify school buses coming along so that our young people aren’t exposed to noxious exhaust fumes? -- Will Durk, Waterbury, CT
Over 21 million children ride the school bus each day, making student transportation the largest U.S. mass transit system. Some 90 percent of these buses run on diesel, a known carcinogen with serious public health and ecological impacts. Pollution from diesel fumes has been directly linked to increased asthma and reduced cognitive development in children, excessively affecting low-income communities. Says Jessica Keithan, co-founder and director of the Texas Electric School Bus Project, “We’re poisoning our kids on the way to school.”
Thankfully, advocacy groups across the U.S. have been making great strides in addressing electrification of school buses, from involving underserved communities and educating policymakers to working with school districts on this issue–and prompting action.
The U.S. government has made significant investments to help school districts transition to electric. Through its Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act signed into law in 2021, the Biden-Harris administration created the Clean School Bus Program, a $5 billion Environmental Protection Agency- (EPA) funded grant program to replace diesel-run buses with zero-tailpipe-emission, electric vehicles. To date, this program has successfully integrated over 12,000 electric buses into school districts nationwide.
In addition to this noteworthy investment, states across the nation have adopted their own laws to replace diesel-fueled school bus fleets with electric. California, New York and Illinois lead the “charge.”
There are inherent roadblocks in mass electrification of school buses. More than 800 school districts have at least one electric school bus in service, but many simply don’t have the budget available to commit to more. According to the U.S. House of Representatives Majority Staff Report Examining the EPA’s Clean School Bus Program, the long-term fuel maintenance savings are barely worth the up-front investment in electric school buses, which cost an estimated $350,000 per bus, on top investment needed in a charging infrastructure. The EPA program tremendously assists districts, but it’s only due to run through 2026 or once the $5 billion is depleted. Also, the politics behind going electric could reduce funding opportunities depending on who is in the White House next year. “If Trump is elected, the fact is that we would lose this funding," says Leah Stokes, an associate professor at the University of California, Santa Barbara.”
With or without funding, school bus electrification needs to be made more affordable. Shifting from diesel to electric will only happen when leaders at every level understand and rally behind it..
CONTACT: Electric School Bus Initiative, https://electricschoolbusinitiative.org.
Dear EarthTalk: How is climate change causing increased gastrointestinal distress? -P.L., via email
Gastrointestinal (GI) distress, including diarrhea, vomiting and foodborne illness, is on the rise globally, coinciding with increasing concerns over climate change, which is known to impact human health in many ways. Emerging evidence suggests that climate change significantly contributes to the rise in GI distress by altering ecological conditions that promote the spread of pathogens and other health hazards.
One of the main ways climate changes contribute to rising GI distress is by contaminating water. Extreme weather events like flooding and hurricanes contaminate water, spreading pathogens like E. coli, Vibrio and Giardia, major causes of GI infections. Furthermore, rising temperatures encourage the growth of harmful algae and bacteria in water sources, further increasing the risk of waterborne diseases.
Food safety and security are also impacted. Higher temperatures and changing agricultural conditions can lead to food contamination, raising the risk of GI infections. As the climate shifts, the stability and safety of food supplies are more threatened, leading to higher rates of foodborne illnesses. Also, inadequate food storage contributes to the proliferation of harmful bacteria, exacerbating the spread of GI diseases.
Moreover, climate change expands the habitat of disease vectors like mosquitoes, which spread GI-impacting diseases such as cholera. Warmer temperatures allow these vectors to survive in new regions, introducing diseases where populations may not have immunity or the medical ability to manage them. Also, heat stress directly affects digestive health, worsening conditions like irritable bowel syndrome.
Epidemiological and case studies from regions affected by climate-related disasters show the clear connection between climate events and increased GI diseases. Areas experiencing severe flooding often see a surge in waterborne GI infections due to compromised sanitation. Research also confirms that higher temperatures and humidity enhance the survival and transmission of pathogens that cause GI distress.
Given the impact of climate change on GI health, it’s crucial that public health systems adapt. Improving water and food safety, raising awareness and strengthening healthcare systems are essential strategies. Addressing these challenges will be vital to reduce the burden of GI illnesses in a warming world. That said, time and money are big issues: “Mitigation plans…often cost hundreds of millions to billions of dollars and take many years to implement,” Boston University’s Beth Haley, lead author of a recent study linking GI issues to increased warming-related sewer overflows, tells Yale Climate Connections.
CONTACTS: Climate change is making us sick, literally, yaleclimateconnections.org/2024/08/climate-change-is-making-us-sick-literally/; The Impact of Climate Change, Pollution, and Biodiversity Loss on Digestive Health and Disease, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S277257232400027X.
Dear EarthTalk: What are Native American tribes doing to transition to a green economy? -- T.K., via e-mail
Native American tribes are increasingly playing a critical role in promoting the transition to a green economy, driven by their commitment to environmental stewardship, living harmoniously with nature, cultural preservation and self-determination. This transition aligns with their traditional values of sustainability while also addressing the challenges posed by climate change and environmental injustice.
One significant step is the development of renewable energy projects on tribal lands. For example, the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe has integrated solar power with hydropower, creating a sustainable energy infrastructure that supports both environmental and economic goals.
Access to federal funding plays a vital role in supporting such projects. Programs like the Inflation Reduction Act and other federal investments enable tribes to pursue clean energy projects tailored to their needs, contributing to the broader goal of transitioning Indian Country to renewable energy sources. Over 200 tribes are now engaged in climate action planning, often in partnership with U.S. agencies. These plans stress reducing carbon emissions, mitigating climate impacts and enhancing the resilience of tribal lands and communities. Such initiatives protect ecosystems, preserve water resources, and address the environmental challenges that disproportionately affect Indigenous populations.
Indigenous tribes have long led the fight for environmental justice, using traditional ecological knowledge to advocate for equitable solutions. Climate change has worsened the health disparities faced by Native American communities, particularly in areas such as water scarcity, extreme weather and food insecurity.
The Southern Ute Indian Tribe has taken proactive steps to reduce pollution from oil and gas operations, receiving significant federal funding to cut emissions and transition to cleaner energy sources.
Many tribes are drawing on traditional ecological knowledge to develop climate strategies. This centuries-old wisdom, combined with modern science, is helping Indigenous communities become more resilient to climate change. At the heart of these efforts is economic self-determination, which enables tribes to build sustainable, green economies that align with their cultural and environmental values. To further support Indigenous communities in their transition to a green economy, increased access to federal funding, technical assistance, and partnerships with private sector innovators can be expanded. Additionally, fostering education and training in renewable energy and environmental stewardship within these communities will empower future generations to continue building sustainable, resilient economies.
CONTACTS: How Native Tribes Are Taking the Lead on Planning for Climate Change, https://e360.yale.edu/features/how-native-tribes-are-taking-the-lead-on-planning-for-climate-change.
Dear EarthTalk: Are we really all exposed to many hazardous chemicals that come off the packaging our food travels in? What can we do to minimize our exposure to these potential toxins in our food? -- William Freleigh, Newark, DE
A large percentage of our food packaging contains toxic Food Contact Chemicals (FCCs), which are chemicals that come into contact with foods during manufacturing, packaging or transportation. Notable FCCs include BPA, BPS and BPF, all commonly found in soda and soup cans, plastic food linings, and DVDs, and plasticizers or phthalates, which are widely used to make plastic products more flexible and durable. At least 25 percent of FCCs, including BPAs and plasticizers, can be found in the human body due to exposure to food packaging, and can be extremely hazardous to our health. Some health risks include harm to the immune system, cancer, liver toxicity, thyroid effects and reproductive toxicity. BPAs are especially hazardous for women, as they are also toxic to the ovaries and uterus.
Due to the prevalence of FCCs in so much food packaging, it is impossible to fully avoid them. However, there are ways to reduce our exposure to toxic chemicals in our food. For one, buy food that is stored in glass jars or BPA-free boxes instead of metal cans and plastic containers, which are more likely to contain FCCs. Also, wash your hands often and always before eating, steer clear of fast-food and fatty foods and eat fresh, unprocessed foods, especially organic fruits and vegetables. You can also reduce risks when preparing food by using wooden, stainless steel or silicone kitchenware, and avoiding non-stick pans, disposable packaging, packaging with recycling codes 3 or 7, and black plastic kitchenware.
FCCs are also prevalent in cleaning products and other household items. You can reduce your exposure to chemicals in these products by using glass or stainless-steel reusable water bottles, buying fragrance-free soaps, cosmetics and cleaners, refusing paper receipts and avoiding vinyl carpets and fabrics. It is also recommended that you keep your windows open for ventilation whenever possible, as synthetic chemicals often deteriorate into dust particles that are easily inhaled.
Unfortunately, the only way that we will be able to permanently get rid of FCCs is to campaign for them to be banned by the government and by national retailers. Several volunteer-led campaigns have already spoken out on the issue, and a lot of headway has been made in banning specific toxic chemicals, including BPAs, in California. If you would like to help canvas for the banning of toxic chemicals in food packaging, consider volunteering for Take Out Toxics or other local campaigns that are pressuring their local governments and retailers to call for chemical bans.
CONTACTS: Reduce Exposure To FCCs, www.consumerreports.org/health/food-contaminants/how-to-reduce-exposure-to-plastic-in-food-everywhere-else-a9640874767; Take Action With Take Out Toxics, https://toxicfreefuture.org/research/take-out-toxics-pfas-chemicals-in-food-packaging/.
Dear EarthTalk: How are musical instrument makers greening their operations? – P.K., via email
The growing awareness of sustainability is influencing various industries, including those making musical instruments. Many are increasingly adopting eco-friendly practices to minimize their environmental footprint. From sourcing sustainable materials to designing energy-efficient manufacturing processes, these efforts are reshaping how musical instruments are made and used. Many, like Yamaha, now use Forest Stewardship Council-certified wood to protect endangered species. Yamaha does this with their wind instruments. This ensures that instruments are made without harming endangered trees.
Beyond sustainably sourced wood, some companies are using recycled or repurposed materials. Yamaha now has an “upcycled” guitar, using materials salvaged from other processes, reducing the need for new materials. Also, innovative companies are now making drums using recycled materials.
Additionally, some companies are exploring the use of reclaimed wood for making violins and cellos, minimizing the need for new materials. Drum kits made from recycled materials like old barrels and discarded plastics further demonstrate how sustainable practices can lead to versatile and eco-friendly instrument designs.
Sustainability in musical instruments goes beyond material sourcing—companies are also addressing the energy consumption involved in manufacturing. Yamaha, in addition to using sustainable materials, is investing in energy-efficient production processes. These efforts help reduce the carbon footprint of the factories producing these instruments, further enhancing their sustainability credentials.
Instrument makers are experimenting with new designs that incorporate recycled or reused components. One innovative example is the Re-tuned Acoustic Guitar Kit, which transforms old guitars into Bluetooth speakers. This project shows how instruments can be repurposed and given a second life, reducing waste.
Musicians can contribute to these efforts by buying pre-owned instruments and supporting brands that prioritize environmental stewardship. Purchasing used instruments is another significant way to reduce environmental impact. By extending the life of an instrument, fewer resources are required and instruments are in circulation longer, preventing them from ending up in landfills.
CONTACTS: How is sustainability influencing the music equipment industry?, https://www.winmarkfranchises.com/blog/2021/march/how-is-sustainability-influencing-the-music-equi/; Yamaha upcycled guitars, https://www.guitarworld.com/news/yamaha-upcycled-guitars; Re-tuned sustainable acoustic guitar Bluetooth speaker kit, https://www.guitarworld.com/news/re-tuned-sustainable-acoustic-guitar-bluetooth-speaker-kit.
Dear EarthTalk: What’s Vice-Presidential candidate Tim Walz’s track record on climate and environment? Do his views line up with Kamala Harris? – Paula Lauer, Sacramento, CA
As Minnesota’s governor and a current VP candidate, Tim Walz's track record on climate and environmental issues plays a critical role in the 2024 election. Climate change has emerged as a key issue, especially with Walz's running mate Kamala Harris, a strong proponent of environmental justice.
Walz’s congressional record reflects consistent support for environmental policies. According to the League of Conservation Voters (LCV), he earned an 86 percent lifetime score, indicating robust backing for climate and conservation legislation. During his time in Congress, Walz supported various efforts to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, protect public lands and invest in clean energy.
As governor, Walz expanded efforts. One significant initiative is Minnesota’s effort to achieve 100 percent carbon-free electricity by 2040, setting a clear long-term goal for decarbonizing the state's energy sector. His administration has worked to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through a comprehensive approach, blending regulatory changes, public investment and private sector incentives. A notable achievement includes a 2024 announcement of a $200 million investment aimed at cutting climate pollution, positioning Minnesota as a leader in clean energy infrastructure.
Both Walz and Harris share similar eco-priorities, particularly in reducing carbon emissions, advancing renewable energy and addressing climate change. Harris, known for her advocacy of climate justice, aligns with Walz in their goal to help marginalized communities bear the brunt of climate change impacts.
While they share core values, differences in policy focus can be observed. Harris, with her national scope as a U.S. Senator and Vice President, has pushed for international agreements and federal-level legislation on climate change. Walz's experience is rooted in state-level infrastructure development and clean energy initiatives tailored to Minnesota’s specific needs. This practical state-level experience could complement Harris’ broader national and international focus, making them a balanced ticket on climate issues.
Walz’s stance on climate was front and center in recent debates, where he argued how climate change is exacerbating extreme weather like hurricanes. His focus on his state’s energy policies and tangible environmental actions serves to highlight his real-world leadership impact. His emphasis on practical, implemented solutions may resonate with voters seeking leaders who can address climate issues with real-world results.
CONTACTS: Democrats’ VP pick Tim Walz welcomed as climate champion by green advocates, https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/article/2024/aug/07/tim-walz-climate-change-policy-environment.
EarthTalk® is produced by Roddy Scheer & Doug Moss for the 501(c)3 nonprofit EarthTalk. See more at https://emagazine.com. To donate, visit https://earthtalk.org. Send questions to: question@earthtalk.org.
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