Ways To Protect Our Environment

(Gunnar Launstein, Manager of NOAA Mussel Watch Program, photo courtesy of NOAA)

U.S. Coastal Waters Less Toxic Than 20 Years Ago

“SILVER SPRING, Maryland, May 12, 2008 (ENS) - U.S. environmental laws enacted in the 1970s are reducing overall contaminant levels in coastal waters of the United States, finds a 20 year study released today by scientists with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, NOAA. But the study shows continuing elevated levels of toxic metals and oils near urban and industrial areas of the coast.

Oil related compounds from motor vehicles and shipping activities continue to flow into coastal waters daily, NOAA reports. These compounds, known as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, or PAHs, have been monitored by NOAA scientists for decades so baseline data exist to help define the extent of environmental degradation.” ~ ENS

Keep reading…