Consumer

"Spokane is taking what’s described as another big step toward improving water quality."

"Carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and particulate matter (PM) are harmful air pollutants that pose significant short- and long-term health risks. Emitted from coal-fired power plants, vehicle exhaust pipes, and other combustion sources, they’re among six primary pollutants monitored by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) through the Clean Air Act. These same pollutants are also some of the most common contributors to unhealthy air inside U.S. homes, due in part to a ubiquitous and possibly surprising activity: cooking."

"MONTPELIER, Vt. -- Vermont Governor Peter Shumlin has signed a first-in-the-nation law requiring the labeling of food produced by genetic engineering. 'I am proud that we’re leading the way in the United States to require labeling of genetically engineered food,' said the governor. 'More than 60 countries have already restricted or labeled these foods, and now one state, Vermont, will also ensure that we know what’s in the food we buy and serve our families.'"

"PetSmart and Petco will stop selling all dog and cat treats made in China."

"It's widely used nationwide as a germ-killing ingredient in soaps, deodorants and even toothpaste, but it's being banned in Minnesota."

"Why is Whole Foods stock down by 20% this morning? Results released after the close of markets yesterday showed the company’s growth flattening as more competitors muscle into its turf. There was a time when Whole Foods stood out for its focus on organic and specialty food, but that time is long gone, ...."

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

"The Chicago City Council today voted 36-10 to ban plastic bags in most stores next year, a change that backers say will improve the city's environment but opponents contend will harm the local economy."

"A law that would make Vermont the first U.S. state to enact mandatory labeling of foods made with genetically modified organisms, or GMOs, received final approval from state lawmakers on Wednesday and now heads to the governor's desk."