Weekly Environmental Updates

A new detailed map developed by researchers highlights both high and emerging risk areas for Lyme Disease in the U.S. As expected, the highest risk regions stretch from Maine to northern Virginia as well as a distinct area in the upper Midwest. The Illinois-Indiana border, the New York-Vermont border, southwestern Michigan and eastern North Dakota are included among the emerging-risk regions. There were more than 30,000 confirmed or probable cases of Lyme disease in 2010. The map will reportedly be used as a baseline for future research. (Associated Press)

Arsenic, much of which is a a human carcinogen, has been found in unsafe levels in several products, including cereal bars, energy shots, and infant formula, according to a new study published by the Journal of Environmental Perspectives. Rice syrup used as sweetener is the culprit in the affected products. Rice readily takes up arsenic from soil and can be a significant source of arsenic exposure, per researchers. Apple and grape juice have also been implicated as sources of arsenic in a recent study by by Consumers Union. There are currently no federal regulations in place regarding levels of arsenic in food.

Testimony in the largest environmental lawsuit in history will be heard later this month when the case against BP begins in federal court in New Orleans. The first phase of the trial will focus on the activities of BP as well as the rig owner, Transocean, contractors Haliburton, Cameron, and others. BP chief executive Robert Dudley has stated that the company would be willing to settle out of court even as it prepares "vigorously" for trial.

PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) lost their court case this month alleging that SeaWorld is violating the 13th Amendment to the U.S.Constitution by enslaving 5 orca whales. The lawsuit accused SeaWorld of taking the whales from their families and forcing them to breed and perform so that SeaWorld could profit financially. PETA's attorney argued that the victim of slavery is not dependent on species. Legal experts point out that animals are considered personal property and that their "personhood" has not been established.

A move is underway in New Orleans to recycle the millions of pounds of the made-in-China plastic beads that get left in the streets following Mardi Gras every year. The beads, which were originally made of glass but are now made of petroleum, cannot be processed in traditional recycling facilities. Some local residents are reportedly resistant to efforts to make the beads recyclable. 2/17/12

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