PFAS Added to Plastic Containers, New Shell Plastics Plant Pollutes, and more

PFAS “forever chemicals,” linked to cancer, liver problems and more, are leaching into cosmetics, household cleaners, and even food stored in plastic containers treated with fluorination. EPA is now going after a company that uses the fluorination process, but some advocates say the agency isn’t doing enough to protect the public. Also, Shell’s massive new ethane cracker plant in western Pennsylvania is sending polluted air and strange smells into the surrounding community. But a $10 million fine pales in comparison to the roughly $100 million a day that the company made in profits in the first quarter of 2023. And only a few dozen species have ever recovered enough to make it off the endangered species list, due to a lack of funding and political controversy. We offer a full transcript for each show along with photos and links to learn more. Check it out at loe.org.