The four articles we read were about the use of antibiotics on factory farms, antibiotics causing superbugs among livestock, antimicrobial wipes and soaps making us sick, and incorporating antimicrobials into the manufacture of hospital furnishings. All of these articles were alarming and disheartening. It seems like there is no escape from harmful manmade antibiotics and they are being used recklessly and without good cause. I am hopeful that as more studies come out showing the negative impacts of these commonly used chemicals, we decide to change course and not use them so carelessly.
Safe drinking water is one of the most essential needs of our health. Safe drinking water is a universal basic human right that every person should be guaranteed. It is my view that this is the least our government should be able to guarantee for us. The Clean Water Act has such profound public health significance because it regulates the discharge of pollutants into all our country's lakes, rivers, streams, wetlands, coastal areas, and other surface waters. Under the Clean Water Act, the EPA sets national standards for water quality and defines water quality criteria, including the specific levels of various pollutants that are allowable under these criteria. The Clean Water Act is a vital step in the right direction, but we need stricter standards and evidence-based criteria for water quality. We need stronger advocacy for policies that protect all our water.
What was once seen as a way to protect us has now bitten us in the behind. I believe that things should be thoroughly researched before being put out for the masses to enjoy.
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