Author Archives: Ecology Center

Top 5 Wins in the Senate Farm Bill

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Top 5 Wins in the Senate Farm Bill
We previously wrote about the disastrous House version of the 2018 Farm Bill, here, which was passed along party lines earlier last month. Subsequently, the Senate has displayed a refreshing sense of bipartisan value, passing a Farm Bill that benefits farmers, the environment, and low-income Americans. Here’s what we love in the Senate’s Farm Bill:… Read more »

It’s time to reduce plastics and return to reality-based recycling

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It's time to reduce plastics and return to reality-based recycling
The Ecology Center began one of the nation’s first curbside recycling programs, on the heels of the first Earth Day. As operators of that same recycling program through the decades, we have had a front-row seat to the recycling industry’s complex evolution. In those early days, we fought to be taken seriously and to demonstrate… Read more »

Top 5 Threats in the House Farm Bill

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Top 5 Threats in the House Farm Bill
The federal Farm Bill is the single biggest food, nutrition, and farming legislation in the country and is passed every five years. It sets the direction for America’s farming and food system, from farming practices to healthy food access. The current farm bill is set to expire at the end of September 2018. The House… Read more »

Press Release: Berkeley Legislation Aims to Curb Use of Disposable Foodware

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Press Release: Berkeley Legislation Aims to Curb Use of Disposable Foodware
[Berkeley, CA] The Berkeley City Council will soon consider the Disposable Foodware and Litter Reduction Ordinance, the most ambitious and comprehensive piece of municipal legislation in the US aimed at reducing single-use disposable foodware.  The “Disposable-Free Dining” ordinance will get its first hearing at the April 24 Berkeley City Council Meeting. At 3pm that same… Read more »

Ask Our Help Desk: Are bioplastics and biodegradable plastics really better?

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Ask Our Help Desk: Are bioplastics and biodegradable plastics really better?
How do you know if the ‘green’ disposable plastic products you buy–marked bioplastic, biodegradable, compostable, or bioplastic–are actually safe for our planet and our health? It’s confusing for well-intentioned people. We’re here to help. Plastic is made of artificially created chemicals “that don’t belong in our world and don’t mix well with nature.” After we… Read more »