Trump’s EPA Just Approved A Pesticide That Damages Children's Brains - The Ring Of Fire
In a controversial move, Scott Pruitt, the administrator of Donald Trump's Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), has recently approved the use of chlorpyrifos, a pesticide with a long history of impact on child health. This decision has sparked significant concerns among health advocates and scientists, given that chlorpyrifos has been linked to brain damage in children, particularly affecting those exposed in utero.
Since its introduction, the effects of chlorpyrifos have been under scrutiny, with research indicating that even low doses of this pesticide can result in severe developmental issues, including lower IQ scores and potential links to autism. Alarmingly, children living near agricultural areas where this pesticide is applied show higher levels of chlorpyrifos in their systems, with some cases reported to be a thousand times higher than in other populations across the US.
The approval ends a 22-year debate on the pesticide’s safety, with critics suggesting that Pruitt's decision favors corporate interests—specifically those of Dow Chemical, the manufacturer of chlorpyrifos—over public health. The pesticide had already been banned for domestic use due to its associated risks; however, farmers remain exempt, meaning the potential for harmful exposure continues for many vulnerable populations, particularly children.
Pruitt's rationale appears to hinge on economic interests, effectively disregarding the extensive evidence gathered over decades regarding the pesticide's risks. This has led many to question the integrity of the EPA's current leadership and their prioritization of profit over the health of American citizens.
As we continue to unpack the implications of this decision, it's crucial for community members to share their thoughts. What are your views on the EPA's actions regarding chlorpyrifos? How do you think this will affect farming practices and community health moving forward?
Feel free to discuss your insights or any related experiences below!