Peaks and Public Health: The Green Science Policy Institute with Dr. Arlene Blum

CHE-Alaska presents, Peaks and Public Health: The Green Science Policy Institute with Dr. Arlene Blum

Please join us for a conversation with Arlene Blum PhD, a biophysical chemist, author, and mountaineer and research associate in chemistry at University of California at Berkeley and founder/director of the Green Science Policy Institute (GSPI).

The Green Science Policy Institute collaborates with scientists from academia, government, business, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) on research contributing to improved regulation and reduced use of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).

This conversation will focus on the work of GSPI on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), a class of more than 12,000 persistent industrial chemicals, known as “forever chemicals.” PFAS are linked to health harms at low exposure levels, and many are bioaccumulative. Arlene and her team work to prevent PFAS pollution by publishing research, making policy recommendations, and educating business and policy makers.

The Institute’s scientific research and policy work with government and business has contributed to preventing the use of “Six Classes” of harmful chemicals including flame retardants and fluorinated chemicals in children’s products, furniture, electronics, and other products world-wide.

In 2019 the Institute launched PFASCentral.org, a curated source for news, science, policy, and opportunities related to PFAS. The website hosts an updated list of PFAS-free products and the PFAS Data Hub which provides access to PFAS data sources.

Blum led the first American and all-women’s ascent of Annapurna I, one of the world’s most dangerous and difficult mountains; co-led the first women’s team to climb Denali; and completed the Great Himalayan Traverse.

CHE-Alaska is part of CHE’s broader network, which is an international partnership of almost 5,000 individuals and organizations in 87 countries and all 50 US states that are committed to addressing environmental impacts on human health across the lifespan.

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