Environmental Working Group: 30 Years of Consumer Health Advocacy

For three decades, the Environmental Working Group (EWG) has been at the forefront of advocating for public health, initially through policy reform and more recently by empowering consumers with scientific information. Ken Cook, president and co-founder of EWG, emphasizes the critical need for a re-evaluation of agricultural spending, advocating for more fresh food closer to urban centers and the adoption of soil-conserving farming methods. He points out that a staggering 200 million Americans are exposed to chemicals in their tap water at levels EWG deems unsafe. The organization provides vital resources and guides to help consumers make informed decisions, aiming to reduce personal exposure to harmful chemicals.

Evolution and the Shift from Policy to Consumer Action

Founded 30 years ago, EWG began as a science-based organization analyzing issues ranging from pesticides in food to air pollution and soil erosion. With a staff of approximately 75, including scientists, lawyers, and communication specialists, their initial focus was on shaping public policy concerning pesticide regulation, air pollution, and incentivizing organic farming.

However, Cook notes a growing paralysis in Washington's policy-making landscape. He attributes this to significant pushback from powerful industries like Big Oil, Big Food, and Big Ag, which have heavily invested in lobbying and campaign contributions. This has created an environment where powerful groups dominate policy discussions, making it increasingly difficult to pass meaningful environmental legislation. Cook suggests that landmark laws such as the Clean Air Act, the Endangered Species Act, or even the establishment of the EPA would likely not pass in today's political climate.

Recognizing this stagnation, EWG strategically shifted its focus towards empowering consumers directly. The internet proved instrumental in this transition, providing accessible information that enables individuals to make informed choices. Cook highlights the nutrition sector as an example: despite political gridlock, authentic, evidence-based voices have emerged to guide people toward healthier eating, often challenging established food companies and traditional nutrition professionals.

He recalls a debate with a nutritionist who criticized EWG for "scaring people off" from fruits and vegetables due to pesticide concerns. Cook's response underscored that while fruit and vegetable consumption is paramount, the mainstream nutrition community has largely failed to significantly increase their intake among Americans. He argues that consumer-driven movements, such as the rise of the organic food sector (now a $60 billion industry), have been far more effective in driving change than waiting for government regulation.

Similarly, in the personal care product industry, EWG's "Skin Deep" database, which rates products and ingredients for safety, has had a transformative impact. Initially conceived to inform Congress about the lack of regulation, it unexpectedly attracted millions of consumers. This surge in consumer demand prompted companies to reformulate products and seek EWG's verification, demonstrating how market forces can drive change when policy mechanisms falter.

The Crisis of Trust and the Watchdog Role

Cook acknowledges that much of the consumer enthusiasm for EWG's work stems from a widespread loss of trust in regulatory bodies like the FDA, USDA, and EPA. He views this erosion of trust as a crisis, often exploited by special interests to argue against government intervention. While EWG actively lobbies and collaborates with government agencies, it also embraces its crucial role as a watchdog, pushing for accountability.

EWG's funding is diversified, coming from online donors (averaging $20-25), foundations, major donors, and a modest amount from its licensing and certification program. This program allows EWG to charge companies a fee to review their products and ingredients, ensuring scientific rigor without relying on donor funds for specific company endorsements.

The Unregulated World of Personal Care Products

Cook highlights the alarming lack of pre-market safety testing for personal care products. Thousands of chemicals are incorporated into these products without any requirement for companies to prove their safety. This "react and see" approach means regulators only act after harm has been demonstrated.

He commends entrepreneurs like Gregg Renfrew (Beautycounter) and Michelle Pfeiffer (fine fragrance) who have voluntarily set high safety standards for their companies, even when the industry norm is to use potentially harmful ingredients. These pioneers demonstrate that creating safe, effective products is achievable, inspiring others and proving that consumer demand for safer options can drive market change.

Navigating the "Wild West" of Certifications

Cook addresses the proliferation of labels and certifications, acknowledging that consumers can feel overwhelmed. He advises looking for certifications with transparent, detailed standards and a scientific staff dedicated to rigorous review. He points to the organic label as meaningful, particularly regarding pesticide use, though he notes its limitations in addressing other issues like animal welfare or labor practices.

He expresses concern about less robust certifications that lack scientific backing, emphasizing that EWG's verification process is extremely stringent and not a "pay-to-play" system.

Beyond Individual Choices: Addressing Systemic Issues

While individual choices are important, Cook stresses that many problems, such as immigration laws, minimum wage, and pollution control, require societal-level solutions. He warns against retreating into personal bubbles and ignoring broader issues, as global problems like plastic pollution and PFAS contamination affect everyone.

The Pervasive Threat of PFAS "Forever Chemicals"

Cook describes the widespread presence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), known as "forever chemicals," in drinking water and wildlife globally. He recounts a personal experience in Hawaii, where his awareness of PFAS contamination in whales, birds, and fish underscored the ubiquitous human footprint on the planet.

He emphasizes that while individual actions can significantly reduce exposure, collective action is crucial. He encourages people to "put a little skin in the game" by engaging with issues and supporting organizations working for change.

PFAS chemicals are linked to numerous health problems, including certain cancers, hormone disruption, reduced vaccine efficacy, and birth defects. Cook references a landmark study in West Virginia, where a class-action lawsuit against DuPont led to a scientific investigation that revealed the extensive health impacts of PFAS.

Responding to Critics: Fear-Mongering vs. Informed Action

Cook addresses the criticism that EWG engages in "fear-mongering" by highlighting several key points:

• Chemical Mixtures: Industry often ignores the cumulative effect of multiple chemicals in the body, regulating them one at a time. Real scientists, however, recognize the potential harm of these complex mixtures.
• Historical Precedent: Historically, chemicals deemed "safe" by industry and regulators have later been banned due to proven harm. Cook argues that waiting for official bans means prolonged exposure to potentially dangerous substances.
• Scientific Consensus: Major scientific and medical organizations, such as the American Academy of Neurology, the Endocrine Society, and the American Academy of Pediatrics, have expressed serious concerns about environmental chemicals and their impact on human health.

He emphasizes that EWG aims to provide actionable information, such as avoiding conventional oat-based products to reduce glyphosate exposure, rather than simply instilling fear.

The Fight for Clean Water and Corporate Accountability

Cook reveals that an estimated 200 million Americans have PFAS in their tap water at unsafe levels. He notes that the EPA is now proposing a legal limit for PFAS in drinking water that aligns with EWG's recommendations, a move strongly opposed by industry. He argues that this opposition stems from the industry's long-standing downplaying of PFAS dangers.

He highlights the disproportionate impact of PFAS on first responders, particularly firefighters, who are exposed through their gear and firefighting foams. He also points to industrial polluters and military bases as significant sources of contamination.

Cook criticizes the lack of regulatory oversight and the "moral failing" of companies that knowingly concealed the dangers of chemicals like PFAS, DDT, and PCBs. He advocates for criminal penalties for executives who prioritize profit over public health, citing instances where companies hid evidence of harm until litigation forced its disclosure.

The Ongoing Battle Against Glyphosate

Cook discusses the pervasive use of Roundup (glyphosate) and the ongoing litigation against its manufacturer. He explains that glyphosate is primarily used on genetically engineered crops designed to resist it, allowing farmers to spray herbicides without harming their crops. This practice, however, leads to higher levels of glyphosate in these foods.

He points out that while glyphosate is sprayed early in the season on corn and soybeans, it's used as a desiccant on oats at the end of the season, leading to high levels in oat-based products. EWG has petitioned the EPA to ban these end-of-season uses. He notes that consumer demand has already led some conventional oat suppliers to reduce glyphosate levels.

Cook acknowledges the "whack-a-mole" phenomenon in pesticide regulation, where one harmful chemical is replaced by another, often with unforeseen consequences. He stresses the importance of consumer awareness and action in driving change.

Europe's Precautionary Principle

Cook contrasts the US approach to chemical regulation with that of the European Union, where a "precautionary principle" often guides policy. While not perfect, the EU has banned thousands of chemicals in consumer products, reflecting a cultural willingness to prioritize safety even when scientific certainty is not absolute. He attributes this to Europe's longer historical perspective and a greater trust in collective action.

Reforming the Farm Bill and Promoting Regenerative Agriculture

Cook delves into the complexities of the US Farm Bill, a massive piece of legislation renewed every five years. He explains that agricultural subsidies, initially designed to ensure food security, have metastasized into a system that disproportionately benefits a small number of large farmers growing a few commodity crops (corn, soybeans, wheat, cotton, rice).

He highlights that 70% of subsidy money goes to 10% of recipients, with 1% receiving 20% of the funds. This system, he argues, contributes to consolidation in agriculture and does not adequately address broader societal needs.

The Farm Bill also includes the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), environmental conservation measures, and rural development initiatives. EWG advocates for reforms that would:

• Invest in climate-smart farming practices.
• Support fresh fruit and vegetable consumption, especially for children.
• Improve nutrition assistance programs.
• Shift USDA's focus towards plant-based foods, rather than solely supporting the industrial meat complex.

He praises Senator Cory Booker and Congressman Jim McGovern for their efforts to introduce legislation like the "Plant Act," which aims to provide support for plant-based food producers.

Cook emphasizes that the goal is not to malign farmers but to bring a different set of values and objectives to the policy debate, ensuring that taxpayer dollars are invested in a way that promotes public health, environmental sustainability, and a more equitable food system. He believes that consumers, by demanding healthier and more sustainable food options, can drive significant change in the agricultural sector.

There's a significant opportunity within the Farm Bill to redirect funding towards regenerative farming practices. The current system, which has seen half a trillion dollars invested since 1995, hasn't shown a clear payoff in rural America. This raises questions about whether a different approach could yield better results, especially given the problems in rural areas like job scarcity and the nutrition crisis. The idea is to create incentives that encourage farmers to adopt regenerative practices, making macro-level decisions that drive the entire agricultural sector towards sustainable solutions.

The Power of Consumer Choice: The Organic Example

The organic movement serves as a powerful example of how consumer demand can drive market change. What started as a state-managed certification system, with significant opposition from large players, evolved into a federal standard in 1990. Despite a decade-long struggle to implement regulations, the organic industry has grown from a few hundred million dollars to over $60 billion.

Beyond its direct economic impact, organic farming has influenced conventional agriculture, leading to changes in pesticide use and timing. This demonstrates that when consumers signal a desire for healthier, more sustainable options, the market responds. The hope is that regenerative agriculture, once it establishes clear standards and gains consumer traction, will follow a similar path, leading to widespread change.

Practical Choices for Consumers: Dirty Dozen and Clean Fifteen

The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has been instrumental in empowering consumers with information to make healthier choices. Their "Dirty Dozen" and "Clean Fifteen" lists, which rank produce based on pesticide levels, are widely recognized.

The concept behind these lists originated from the understanding that not everyone can afford or access organic produce. By analyzing USDA data, the EWG identified fruits and vegetables that, even if not organic, have lower pesticide residues (Clean Fifteen) and those that tend to have higher residues (Dirty Dozen). This allows consumers to make informed decisions, prioritizing organic for the Dirty Dozen if concerned about pesticides, and feeling confident about conventional options for the Clean Fifteen.

The EWG's approach is to provide choices without judgment. They acknowledge that people live in the real world and aim to offer practical solutions for incorporating healthier habits into daily life.

Beyond Food: Personal Care and Household Products

The EWG extends its consumer guidance beyond food to personal care products and household cleaners. Their "Skin Deep" database helps consumers identify products with fewer harmful chemicals. The advice is to start small, focusing on one area at a time, and gradually make changes.

The impact of conscious consumer choices is evident in the marketplace. Companies are reformulating products, seeking certifications, and adapting to consumer trends. This demonstrates that every time a consumer makes a healthier choice, they send a signal to the market, encouraging the production of safer alternatives.

A Shift in Environmentalism: From "Against" to "For"

Historically, environmentalism has often been framed around what it's "against" – stopping harmful practices like paving over wilderness or building polluting plants. However, there's a growing shift towards being "for" something, focusing on positive solutions and sustainable alternatives.

This new approach, often driven by the private sector and consumer demand, is leading to rapid and profound changes that government regulation alone might not achieve. Examples include the greening of the power sector with renewable energy sources and the increasing availability of organic and clean products.

The key to unlocking this progress is demonstrating that environmentally friendly choices are also economically viable. When the "green choice" becomes the "best economic choice," decision-makers and industries are more likely to embrace it. This bottom-up movement, fueled by informed consumer choices, is creating a new normal where sustainability is integrated into economic and social structures.

The EWG encourages individuals to get involved by subscribing to their email list for updates on their work, scientific findings, and practical tips. By making intentional choices in their shopping carts, consumers can collectively drive demand for healthier products and contribute to a more sustainable future.