EMERGING
CONTAMINANTS

Topic 19:

Thursday, May 5, 2011, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center/Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, Burlington Waterfront, Burlington, VT.

A mind expanding thought provoking evening for adults, exploring challenging topics with industry experts.

Emerging contaminants are a group of compounds that have recently been identified in wastewater, streams, and ground water but are not regulated. Some of these are known as endocrine disruptors (which are compounds that can interfere with the endocrine systems of animals, and so affect reproduction). These compounds include pharmaceuticals and other compounds that can affect the normal functions of humans and animals.

Thus, the topic is more than just one particular compound; different compounds have their own concerns or pathways. Join us in conversation with Patrick Phillips, Hydrologist, US Geological Survey, Troy, NY. Free event for 21+ with cash bar and themed drink; FREE hors d’oeuvres sponsored by VT Sigma Xi, Scientific Research Society.
 

A bio about Patrick Phillips:

Patrick Phillips has been a hydrologist with the US Geological Survey for the last 25 years, and has authored over 50 publications focusing on the source and transport of trace organics (including pharmaceuticals, hormones, personal care products and pesticides) in urban and agricultural settings across the United States. Recently, Mr. Phillips has worked on assessing combined sewer overflows as a source of hormones and other emerging contaminants to Lake Champlain. Mr. Phillips received his undergraduate degree from Middlebury College and graduate degrees from University of Oklahoma and Johns Hopkins University.
 

Questions to help you think about the topic:

1. What are emerging contaminants?
    
2. Are emerging contaminants changing our amphibians and reptiles in Lake Champlain?
    
3. Why are scientists concerned about emerging contaminants?
    
4. Can consumer choices affect the presence of emerging contaminants in our waters?
    
5. How do environmental scientists do science without a laboratory?
    
6. How is being an environmental scientist similar to being an artist?

Links suggested by Patrick and others on this topic:

• General Reading on Emerging Contaminants in the Environment
• Recent Study in Lake Champlain Basin
• Article by Neil Kamman (PDF)
• Harbor Watch; Mercury in the Lake Champlain Basin by: Jeff Meyers
• Lake Champlain Basin Program. Article talks about Mercury pollution, prevention, and household products potentially carrying Mercury. This site also provides addition links for more information.

And another perspective on this issue:

• The Endocrine Disruption Exchange
• Superbug gene rife in Delhi water supply. A gene that causes a wide range of bacteria to become resistant to antibiotics has been found in the water supply in Delhi, with worrying implications for the rest of the globe. London Guardian, United Kingdom.
   

Cafe Scientifique questions or topic suggestions?
Please contact Linda Bowden at lbowden@echovermont.org

Our next Cafe Scientifique will be Thursday, June 16, 2011.

Café Scientifique is sponsored by: