New at TURI: FY24 Academic Research Grant Applications Open

Each year, TURI offers grant funding to academic faculty for research to identify, evaluate, and/or develop safer alternatives to PFAS. Since 1992, over 100 research projects from Massachusetts universities have been supported by TURI. TURI is now accepting proposals for the 2024 grant cycle!  The research focus area for these proposals is per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (also known as PFAS), toxic chemicals used for a variety of manufacturing and product applications. Proposals should be submitted to identify, evaluate, and/or develop safer alternatives to the use of PFAS in manufacturing and product applications. Some examples include:  Water and stain-resistant coated fabrics, textiles, and footwear Surfactant applications including fume suppressants Refrigerants and coolants Manufacturing processing aids Coated food packaging and other non-stick materials Proposed research may focus on new processes, materials and/or chemicals that can significantly reduce or eliminate the use of PFAS. TURI does not fund research for end-of-pipe technologies, such as pollution control, treatment or remediation.  Faculty from any Massachusetts-based college or university are eligible for this research funding. Proposals are due no later than June 30, 2023. Contact Greg Morose, Research Manager, to discuss your research project ideas. Video: University Researchers Partner with Siemens Healthineers to find Safer Surfactant

Learn More

Stay tuned to next month's newsletter, or check our website for information about TURI's FY24 grants for business & industry and community organizations!

Looking Back: Spring TUR Conference

Last month, we concluded our Spring TUR conference, where more than 100 attendees learned how to identify and adopt safer alternatives, embed their work in corporate sustainability efforts and more.  In addition to the keynote presentation about current Toxic Substance Control Act (TSCA) activities by Ingrid Feustel, Senior Regulatory Specialist at the EPA, we also offered a TUR Program Update and five breakout sessions designed to support organizations and businesses with their various TUR questions and challenges.  Each training proves the benefits of our work and highlights the value of networking with a committed group of peers who are moving the needle on creating a safer world for all.  Moving forward, all of our Fall conferences will be virtual and Spring conferences will be in-person so that you can find a format that fits your needs and schedule.   Looking for more events? Scroll down for our event calendar!

In the News Risk Management for Methylene Chloride. Methylene chloride, also known as dichloromethane (DCM), is a volatile chemical used in a wide range of industrial, commercial, and consumer applications like adhesives, sealants, degreasers, cleaners, and automobile products. Read more on EPA actions to manage the unreasonable risk from methylene chloride and protect public health.

Biden-Harris PFAS Fact Sheet. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law invests $9 billion to help communities that are on the frontlines of PFAS and other contamination reduce levels in drinking water. This comprehensive fact sheet highlights the new actions and initiatives to tackle this pressing issue.  ECHA recommends eight substances for REACH authorization. The ECHA now recommends eight new substances for REACH authorization, including lead. Once substances are added to the list, companies selling products in the EU will need to apply for authorization to continue using them.

Companies have discharged millions of pounds of toxic chemicals in the Delaware River in the last five years. On the Delaware River, in the region where 8,100 gallons of hazardous chemicals were spilled on March 28, industrial plants have legally released millions of pounds of toxic chemicals into the water in permitted amounts over the last five years.  Good Books The New War on Cancer: The Unlikely Heroes Revolutionizing Prevention. In this book (expected release date May 11 2023) the author explores the intersection between cancer and the environment. The work of the Toxics Use Reduction Program in Massachusetts is identified as “one of the most effective state laws…and has been recognized internationally and used as a model for other countries”. An Everyone Culture: Becoming a Deliberately Developmental Organization. We are reading this as part of TURI’s periodic “book club”, which focuses on best practices to enhance our team’s effectiveness and collaborative spirit.

Upcoming Events

Champions of Toxics Use Reduction Celebration This event, held at the Massachusetts Statehouse in the Great Hall, will highlight and acknowledge the Massachusetts companies and organizations that have committed to building a healthier community by reducing their use of toxic chemicals. We’d love for you to join us in Boston and even meet with legislators from your district to share your experiences with TUR planning and implementation. Email Liz Harriman for more details.  June 20, 11AM-1:30PM

‌ ‌ ‌ ‌