Connecticut Sierra Club Takes on Genetically Modified Foods (GMOs)
On January 19, the Connecticut Sierra Club Leadership voted to tackle the issue of requiring GMO labeling at the state level.
GMOs, or "genetically modified organisms," are plants or animals created using the technique of genetic engineering (GE). GE merges DNA from two or more different species, creating combinations that don't occur in nature. Corn, soybeans, canola, cotton, sugar beets, Hawaiian papaya, and a small amount of zucchini and yellow squash have been genetically engineered for human consumption. It has been estimated that GMOs are in at least 80% of processed foods in the United States. Used in agriculture mainly to allow higher use of herbicides or to allow the plant to create its own insecticide, current use of GMOs has failed to fulfill the promise of increased yields, drought tolerance, enhanced nutrition, or other benefits. [Read more]
Upcoming Events
2/14 - Energy Efficiency and a Resilient Electric Grid
Joel Gordes of Environmental Energy Solutions is a well known and respected independent energy consultant, author and lecturer on energy and environmental issues, including those concerning climate change and environmental security. Joel's presentation will discuss how energy efficiency and distributed sources of energy, including renewables, can add resiliency to the electric grid and can provide a greater degree of safety and security. [Read more]
2/16 - Hike in Bolton, CT
Canadian pipeline company Enbridge Inc. and the Exxon-Mobil-owned Portland Montreal Pipeline Company appear to be reviving a tar sands oil pipeline plan, called Trailbreaker, which would transport tar sands oil through some of the most important natural and cultural landscapes in Eastern Canada and New England. [Read more]