Author Archives: Frances.Kawamoto

Is Climate Change Aggravating Your Allergies?

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Is Climate Change Aggravating Your Allergies?
According to researchers, rising carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere are causing an increase in the release of ragweed pollen and mold allergies. This LA Times article references the new national study, which also identifies cities where allergies to mold and ragweed are most common, including San Francisco: “The sneezing, eye-watering, itchy-throated misery that comes… Read more »

New phone application maps public drinking water fountains

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New phone application maps public drinking water fountains
The Ecology Center has long been committed to educating the public about the hazards of drinking from plastic water bottles. Not only do one-time use plastic bottles create waste, they can also leach chemicals into the drinking water. East Bay residents transitioning away from bottled water might find the Ecology Center’s fact sheet on water… Read more »

Warning: Artificial Food Dyes May Be Linked to Hyperactivity

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Warning: Artificial Food Dyes May Be Linked to Hyperactivity
A new study by the US government suggests that artificial food dyes, while not a cause of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, may worsen the condition in some children. While the food industry insists that “the safety of artificial colors has been affirmed through extensive review,” an FDA panel will vote next week on whether foods… Read more »

Berkeley’s Transition Town

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Berkeley's Transition Town
In February of this year, the Ecology Center hosted a Transition Town meeting with about 100 community members and representatives from the City of Berkeley’s Office of Energy and Sustainable Development, “as part of an international movement aimed at promoting community-based sustainability, specifically in regard to energy consumption, oil reliance and food production.” “Each Transition… Read more »