Pollution & Toxics

All of Sightline's research, maps, and publications on pollution, toxics such as PBDEs, and how the region can become cleaner.

For the Cascadia Scorecard Pollution indicator, Sightline chose to study pollution in people--toxics such as PBDEs (toxic flame retardants) and PCBs--and what we can do to reduce our exposure. We've also studied trends such as ozone pollution on Mount Rainier. Explore the different sections to find our latest research, solutions, and graphics.

Research & Publications: Page
PBDEs in the Northwest - Meet the Moms
The mothers in the Sightline study tell why they were tested for PBDEs and what they think should be done about the problem of toxics in humans.; Report
Policy Analysis: Bulk Discounts for Polluters
According to a new analysis by Seattle-based Sightline Institute, one of Washington State’s few fees designed to discourage toxic pollution is undermined because it gives bulk discounts to the state's biggest polluters.; view all

Solutions: Prevent Pollution Before It Happens
A new twist on an old idea can multiply the reuse and recycling of materials and encourage manufacturers to eliminate pollution before it happens.; Prove Safety First with New Chemicals
There are some 85,000 synthetic chemicals approved for commercial use today, but few have been tested for their effects on human health. We need to test them before putting them into widespread use.; view all

Maps & Graphics

Median PBDE Levels in Northwest Women

PBDE Levels in Humans Since the 1980s

Average PBDE and PCB Levels in Northwest Women

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Resources: Organization
Palouse-Clearwater Environmental Institute
PCEI's focus is to increase citizen involvement in decisions that affect Idaho and eastern Washington's environment and quality of life. It has programs in agriculture, water, education, and transportation. http://www.pcei.org; Resource site
Environmental Working Group
EWG focuses on "environmental investigations" that often generate excellent resources--searchable databases, test results, detailed report findings--informing both policy makers and individuals trying to reduce their exposure to toxics chemicals. http://www.ewg.org/issues/siteindex; view all

Sections

Pollution & Toxics