Environmental Concerns in Maine
To monitor Maine’s air quality and ozone levels, bookmark the State’s air quality forecast page. On that page, you can sign up to receive an e-mail “enviroflash” when the air quality index reaches unhealthy levels.
A great source for current and recent news stories about environmental issues in Maine is www.maineenvironews.com.
If you want to learn more about the links between what you consume and use (in your home and in and on your body), explore the educational resrouces for nontoxic living at The Naked Truth Project. This Portland-based nonprofit helps illuminate the links between personal health and environmental health.
To learn even more about the connections between personal health and environmental contaminants, explore the site of the Alliance for a Clean and Healthy Maine. This coalition has produced research study, coordinated educational events and lobbied for groundbreaking legislation regulating Mainers’ exposure to toxic chemicals (such as phasing out hazardous flame retardants and ensuring that children’s toys are free of toxic substances).
Major development plans in Maine’s north woods have prompted much dialogue on how to foster economic growth without destroying the inherent natural values of place. Read more on the most contentious proposal by Plum Creek for large-scale development in the Moosehead Lake region.
With 4,000-plus miles of coastline, Maine is vulnerable to the rising sea levels that could occur with accelerating global warming. Read more here about research and planning efforts underway.
