We live in relationship with and are intimately connected to both Creator and earth. And we rely on a healthy environment to sustain us, and must work to prevent environmental hazards, including pollution and exposure to toxic chemicals. Of special concern is the more than 80,000 chemicals that are used in the United States that have not been adequately tested for their effects on human health, called per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAs). These chemicals are found in everyday items including cookware, furniture, skincare products, toys and food.
Focus Areas
Plastic Pollution
Each each up to 12 billon tons of plastic trash end up in God's ocean. Not only is this degrading ocean and marine life but it has a negative impact on human health. It is estimated that nearly 270,000 tons of plastic is floating in God's ocean. As plastics break down into "micro plastics" they make their way into our drinking water and impact human health.
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Toxic Drinking Water
PFAS is a class of nearly 5,000 chemicals that are used in consumer products and military and firefighting tools. These chemicals are now linked to multiple health problems such as birth defects, thyroid issues and some cancers. The primary exposure to PFAS is through drinking water. Despite the health risks of PFAS, the Environmental Protection Agency is not currently regulating PFAS. 25 faith groups joined together to urge EPA to list PFAS as a toxic chemical.
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Dark Waters Screening & Discussion
After the release of the 2019 film, "Dark Waters," many religious groups came together to watch, learn, and discuss the intersections of faith, environmental justice, and toxic chemicals. The film documents the story of Rob Billott, a corporate lawyer and Catholic, who uncovers a chemical company's coverup of PFAS and its impacts on a rural West Virginia town.
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