EPA Restricts Lead Levels Even Father: Green Materials, not just Green Processes

For the first time in 30 years, the EPA has announced that they are going to further restrict allowable lead levels. Currently, the standards are 1.5 micrograms of lead per cubic meter of air…and since that level was set in 1978, they’re tightening it 10 times to just 0.1 micrograms of lead per cubic meter.

The EPA will make personal changes to help this process, and these steps will take until 2011 and then states will have five years to comply with the new standards. This shouldn’t be a problem for most locations, though it is estimated that at least 18 countries in 12 different states will violate these standards. Over 100 cities also wouldn’t make the cut. You can read more here.

Using Green Products, not just Green Processes

When going green with your business, start with your products. A lot of business owners think that going green means replacing light bulbs and cutting back on packaging. While that is a part of it, going green should also be about using safe, clean products.

Lead isn’t the only material that is unsafe. Most people have heard about the dangers of asbestos and certain kinds of plastic, but many times, even “ok” materials could be better. In other words, take a moment to learn about ALL of the materials you’re using. If you’re running a flower shop, can you find natural clay pots instead of the pots you are currently using. If you’re running a bakery, can you find organic products to replace current products?

The point it, you have to look at going green from all sides. This isn’t something you can do in a year or two, even if money is no object. Going green is something you have to work on continuously.