Let’s work together

Recycle

Repurpose

Reuse

Donations of Reuse items can be dropped @ 4819 S 12th Tacoma, WA 10-12

Items currently accepting

Clothes, Shoes, Small furniture items, dishes, and household items.

 

Our latest report is out!

All too often, environmental violations go unaddressed because the system for reporting these issues is fragmented and difficult for Washingtonians to navigate. Different agencies have varying responsibilities and figuring out whom to contact can be difficult depending on the violation being committed.

Our latest report, Lessons from IVAN-Washington, is the culmination of our work with frontline communities that are a part of our statewide coalition, as well as with state agencies and other governmental partners. Together, we came up with recommendations to address the barriers faced by communities when they need to report environmental issues.

Lessons from IVAN-Washington makes the case for a single, statewide environmental violations reporting tool to ensure we can advance equity, environmental justice, and healthy communities statewide.

A big thank you to all who lent their time and energy to engage in the development of this report!

Download the full report, or just read the executive summary in English or Spanish. https://frontandcentered.org/reports/





Health: Health Equity

 

PFAS and Your Health

Did you know PFAS can be in your cookware? https://tpchd.org/homes/healthy-homes/pfas/

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of harmful chemicals.

They are used to make waterproof, nonstick, and stain-resistant materials. They do not break down naturally over time and build up in the environment and body.

Scientists are studying how PFAS affect people’s health.

Exposure to PFAS may lead to:

  • Lower birth weights.

  • Elevated cholesterol levels.

  • Increased risk of thyroid disease.

  • Reduced immune response to vaccines.

  • Higher risk of testicular and kidney cancers.

  • Increased high blood pressure during pregnancy.

  • Changes in liver enzymes that indicate liver damage.

How do you know if PFAS is in your cookware?

PFAS are common in nonstick cookware coatings.

PFAS in nonstick cookware may release into food if you scratch it or use high temperatures.

Your cookware may contain PFAS if it:

  • Has a nonstick surface.

  • Is scratched, peeling, or flaking.

Even if your cookware is labeled PTFE- or PFOA-free, it may still contain PFAS.

Keep PFAS out of your food.


Protect your water supply—enjoy good health.

Clean water promotes good public health. Everyone deserves to have a safe and reliable source of drinking water. To make sure water from the tap is safe, we permit, regulate, educate and consult with:

  • Water systems.

  • Industry professionals.

  • Property owners.

  • Businesses.

Are you curious about the water quality in your neighborhood?

Check out our new interactive map which shows water quality concerns in your area. The water quality information includes nitrate results, arsenic results and saltwater intrusion areas

 

Poor air quality affects your health.

Learn how you can improve the air—and your health. 

  • Your age, general health, and the amount and length of exposure to smoke determines whether you will experience smoke-related health problems.

  • When smoke levels are high, even healthy people may experience symptoms.

  • Smoke can also affect indoor air quality in businesses and buildings like schools, hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and offices.

    • When smoke levels are heavy outdoors, a large amount of smoke can get indoors, even when you close windows and doors.

  • Commercial buildings and schools air filtration systems’ draw in the outdoor air. Standard HVAC air filters don’t remove most of the ultra-fine smoke particles. MERV 13, or equivalent, high efficiency air filters can help remove particulates from the air.

10 ways to improve air quality and protect your health

  1. Sign up for burn ban alerts and abide by them. Know when air quality conditions become stagnant!

  2. Burn seasoned, dry wood to release the least possible amount of smoke. Avoid:


    • Wet wood—It produces a lot of smoke and won’t burn efficiently.

    • Treated or painted wood—It will produce very toxic chemicals if burned.

    • Burning cardboard or papers you want to get rid of—Recycle instead.

  3. Dispose of yard clippings properly—Outdoor burning is illegal in most of Pierce County.

  4. Take a break from the driver’s seat when possible—Public transit, carpool, biking or walking can be an enjoyable way to reduce emissions.

  5. Combine errands to save gas—Reduce exhaust fumes if you need to drive.

  6. Be idle free—Switch off your car when you idle for more than 10 seconds.

  7. Slow down when you drive and keep a consistent foot on the gas—Speeding and slamming on your brakes wastes fuel.

  8. Keep your vehicle’s engine and tire pressure in top condition—A well-maintained vehicle produces less pollution.

  9. Avoid garden tools that run on gasoline—A push or electric mower doesn’t pollute like a gas mower.

  10. Be mindful of spillage when filling your gas tank.

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Questions?

Email Jackie Busby.