Chemicals

"Pesticides are directly responsible for a massive decline in the bee population in North America and Europe, a new study out of Harvard University says."

"The Obama administration began a process that may result in the first federal regulation of chemicals used in fracking, a drilling technique that has transformed energy production while eluding oversight sought by environmentalists."

"How broken is the nation's chemical-safety system? Of the 80,000 or so chemicals currently used in commerce, the Environmental Protection Agency has only tested 200 since Congress gave the agency its marching orders nearly four decades ago. And of the 200 tested chemicals, only five have been banned or regulated."

"Coca-Cola is moving to eliminate an ingredient used in many of its citrus-flavored products after consumers expressed concerns."

"An apple a day usually keeps the doctor away -- unless it's ridden with pesticides."

"Americans at highest risk from accidents at chemical plants are largely from minority communities and are disproportionately poor — and industries and regulators are failing to take measures to make their situation any safer, according to a new study."

"Legislation to create national standards for regulating chemicals has generated opposition from some states, who fear the bill would curtail their authority to take action against chemicals they deem harmful."

"House Democrats on the Energy and Commerce Committee are warning that the GOP's second attempt to reform the nation's chemical laws could jeopardize state and local regulations on hydraulic fracturing."