Consumer Beware

Adventures in Sustainable Living Podcast

Episode 115

Consumer Beware

Have you ever known a person that seemed to have a conspiracy theory about almost everything? Every little thing that happens, they jump to the conclusion that some government plot or sinister group is responsible. 

But what if it turns out that some of these theories are true? What if there really was a conspiracy or a major coverup to avoid taking responsibility for their bad deeds. 

While I have never been a person to believe all the conspiracy theories sometimes it is quite obvious we have been mislead about the potential benefits or harmful attributes of a particular product simply for the financial benefit of someone else.  

If you want to learn more and find out how being informed helps you to be more sustainable then listen to E115 which is called Consumer Beware. 

Welcome back everyone to the Adventures in Sustainable Living podcast. This is your host Patrick and this is E115 which is called Consumer Beware. 

Right out of the gate I want to emphasize that I am simply not a conspiracy kind of guy. And that is not what I am attempting to promote here.  But, what I do want to accomplish in this episode is to give you a few examples of times when we as consumers have been completely mislead by big business and maybe even the government. And the sole underlying reason for this is often financial gain. The end result of that is wastefulness, harm to the environment, as well as physical harm to consumers. But you can protect yourself by being informed. In then end, each step you take to protect yourself also makes your lifestyle more sustainable.  

But I want to start out by telling a little story about my new neighbor because I makes a point, albeit solely for the purpose of entertainment. 

After 25 years of living on the homestead property, the 40 acre lot next to me finally sold. After all this time of us living up on that mountain completely alone, the 40 acre lot next to me actually has someone living on it full time. He moved onto the property about 2 years ago. His cabin is about 300 yards through the trees and he is generally a very quiet guy. Most of the time, he rarely makes a sound and I start wondering if he is even there.  

The main thing I can say about the new neighbor is that he is definitely a conspiracy theorist. He feels as if the government is always watching him. He thinks the government is seeding the atmosphere with things that invade our bodies and will eventually control our minds. And he also thinks the birds are government spies. 

In fact Annette and I were joking about that the other day. We have these grey jays that hang around the cabin all the time because we toss food scraps off the deck and they are always scrounging. They are always around and always watching for the next opportunity for a free meal.  Anyway, we always jokingly say “The birds are watching us again.”  

Anyway, all joking aside, I think there are obvious examples of how big business and even the government has tried to either cover up things or feed misinformation to the public simply because billions of dollars are at stake. 

Climate Change

My best example of course is climate change. The first seminal paper on the possibility of climate change was published in 1896. By 1938 increases in carbon dioxide in the atmosphere was connected to global warming. And here we are 127 years later and people are finally paying attention.  

And yet there is still an enormous organized movement of climate change denial. What we repeatedly see is large corporations pursuing private gain and hiding information from the public. In order for this to be successful, big business coordinates public relations campaigns focused on propping up their own experts that deny their industry has contributed to harming public health. 

Furthermore, quite often big business has deep political connections with elected officials who stand to financially gain from protecting the corporation. It also doesn’t help that there are hundreds of elected officials in the 139th Congress that still deny the established scientific consensus that the Earth is warming. 

And I came across an astonishing study the other day.  A study published in 2022 found that four major oil companies, Chevron, ExxonMobile, British Petroleum, and Shell, often used terms such as climate, low carbon, and transition, in their annual reports and often devised strategies around decarbonization. What this means is that their actions on clean energy were mostly pledges and these companies still focus on fossil fuels as their primary source of revenue.   

In particular, ExxonMobil climate scientist predicted with astonishing accuracy the climate damage that would result from the use their product would. Meanwhile the company spent enormous sums of money denying the science of climate change. Exxon knew for years the threat of human caused global warming yet they orchestrated lobbying and propaganda campaigns to delay climate action. They were actually paying people to put out misinformation. 

Propane Industry

Now you would think that with all the attention focused on climate change and green energy, that people would start to pay attention and change their ways. But unfortunately this is not true. Big influencers in the propane industry are now spending hundreds of thousand of dollars to promote propane and oppose electrification. In fact the Propane Education and Research Council, known as PERC, recently spent $900,000 to support an anti-electrification campaign in New York. 

What most people do not know is that PERC is a federally sanctioned trade organization and is a non-profit. They are allowed to levy fees on the sale of propane and that money is supposed to be used to “inform and educate the publish about safety and other issues associated with the use of propane.” 

However, they are using those funds to promote their pro-fossil fuel agenda saying the propane is a “clean burner, it cleans up the environment.” What is actually true is that propane, just like any other fossil fuel, emits CO2 when burned. Meanwhile climate advocates are campaigning to electrify buildings instead of powering them on oil and gas. But I think this is going to be an ongoing battle for some time. 

So, let’s look at another couple of examples of major industry coverups that were significantly harmful to the consumer. 

Ford Pinto

Let’s look at the case of the Ford Pinto. 

This car was introduced in 1971. While the car was still in the development phase, it was discovered that there were some serious design flaws. The Ford company discovered that low-speed rear end crashes would cause the fuel tank’s filler neck to tear away and spill gasoline under the vehicle. Additionally, the fuel tank was easily punctured by bolts protruding from the differential as well as other brackets. 

It would have cost the Ford company $11 per car to fix the problem. However, the company buries the problem and decided it would cost less to pay off Pinto owners whose cars caught on fire. The Ford company had actually calculated it would save them $70 million to settle claims with burn victims as opposed to actually fixing the problem. 

Eventually the Pinto ended up being a public relations disaster for Ford and the car was taken off the market.

Cigarettes  

Another great example of an industry cover up is cigarettes. 

For decades, the tobacco industry covered up the health risks associated with smoking cigarettes. 

This cover up started after a landmark study was published in 1950 in the Journal of the American Medical Association. The study was published by Dr. Ernst Wynder, who was a physician and epidemiologist. This study linked cigarette smoking to lung cancer. 

In response to this, 6 major cigarette manufacturers launched a study of their own as a means of confusing the public. In 1954 the Council of Tobacco Research ran full page ads in 400 newspapers stating that eminent doctors and researchers questioned the significance of the claims regarding the dangers of smoking cigarettes. 

Meanwhile the underlying truth was that tobacco industry scientists already recognized the link between smoking and lung cancer. In fact a 1972 industry memo detailed a strategy to create doubt about the adverse health claims without actually denying it. 

Eventually, the attorney generals from 46 states filed an enormous lawsuit against the industry. In 1998 the tobacco companies agreed to an annual pay out $10 billions, indefinitely, to compensate for the health care costs associated with the damage they had done. 

The Thalidomide Tragedy

Thalidomide was developed by a Swiss pharmaceutical company in the 1950s. During early testing researchers noted that it was nearly impossible to give animals a lethal dose. Based on that basic testing the drug was considered to be non-toxic to humans. 

It was initially marketed as a sedative and sleep aid that could be used without the risk of developing chemical dependency. Following the release of the drug, it was noted to have anti-emetic effects. Consequently, it became a popular remedy with pregnant women to alleviate morning sickness. The widespread use was aided by the fact that it was inexpensive and could be obtained without a prescription.  

Unfortunately, the drug was not rigorously tested for potential teratogenic effects. It took nearly 5 years to make the connection between thalidomide and birth defects. After widespread use in Australia, Japan, and Europe, physicians finally started making a connection between birth defects and the use of thalidomide. It is estimated that 10,000 children were affected. Nearly half of those died within months of being born. 

Although this is truly a tragedy, it did mark a turning point in toxicity testing for new medications. The United States and international regulatory agencies soon developed systematic testing protocols. It is interesting to note that thalidomide is still in use today as a treatment for certain types of cancer and inflammatory diseases. It is also used as a treatment for leprosy. In countries that lack strict monitoring protocols, birth defects are still commonly seen. 

Other Products

Now these are some obvious examples of industry over sights and plain and simple coverups. It is easy to pass judgement on big business and big Pharma for their bad behavior. But, there are plenty of other products that we use daily without giving any thought of those products being harmful. 

There are dozens of personal care products that we have in our lives and use daily. Have you even consider that these products may contain chemicals that are harmful to your health. Things such as hair dye, perfume and cologne, shaving cream, shampoo, deodorant and make up.

Did you know that personal care products are regulated by the FDA but they are not treated as drugs. These products can go on the market prior to FDA approval. Toxic and allergenic ingredients do not have to be listed on the labels. Some of the these products contain known carcinogens. 

People will often go to great lengths to be beautiful and cosmetic companies know this. There are numerous examples of permanent disfigurement and even death after using products that have been on the market for decades. 

Plastic Containers

One other thing to think about is the plastic containers that we all use almost everyday. Despite the widespread use, the ease and convenience, not to mention inexpensive, plastic food containers are not all their cracked up to be.

But what most of us never do is consider exactly how that plastic is manufactured and what chemicals go into it that can potentially leach into our food. Consequently, these plastic containers we so often use for food storage may not actually be safe. Yet we use them everyday. We store food in the refrigerator. We use plastic lunch boxes. We use plastic water bottles. But apparently it is not common knowledge that all plastics are not created equal. 

I would encourage you to take the time to go to your cabinets and look at all the plastic containers that you have. Those with the #1, #3 , #6 or #7 may contain BPA and PVC which can leach into your food. Containers with the #2, #4, or #5 are considered food safe. However, because it is almost impossible to guarantee the quality of any plastic, some people stay away from plastic containers altogether. 

Even with high quality plastics, there are two things you should never do. 

1. Never reheat food in a plastic container even if it considered high quality plastic or labeled as being microwave safe.  When plastic is heated it releases chemicals that leach into the food and actually causes genetic alterations to the food. It is not even advisable to store hot or cooked food in a plastic container. But it is considered safe to store cool or cold food as well as dry foods in plastic. 
2. The second thing you should never do is place plastic containers in hot water. Washing plastic in hot water causes the same reaction as heating the plastic. The same types of chemicals are released. 

Going forward from here, use the plastic containers you presently have to store dry goods. If you want to use them to store cooked food, then line them with something to avoid contact with the plastic. However, it you really want to play it safe use glass and stainless steel for food storage. 

Household Chemicals

Another category to think about is all the household chemicals we use. Every year we spend millions of dollars on household cleaning products and most of them are dangerously toxic. 

Antifreeze ingestion can cause damage to the heart, brain, kidneys, as well as other internal organs.

Household bleach is strongly corrosive. Ingestion can cause damage to the lungs, vomiting, and even coma. 

Drain cleaners often contain lye and other chemicals known to cause burns to the skin and eyes, even blindness. 

Carpet and upholstery cleaners contain naphthalene, which is known to cause cataract formation and liver damage after long exposure. 

Ammonia fumes are highly irritating to the eyes, nose, throat, and lungs. People with asthma, heart or lung conditions should avoid ammonia altogether. Mixing ammonia with chlorine products produces a toxic gas that can be fatal. 

Even air fresheners contain formaldehyde which is strongly carcinogenic. 

There are more than 40,000 chemicals used on a wide range of consumer products in the United States. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, less than 1% of those chemical have been tested for human safety. It is almost unnerving to think that synthetic chemicals are in almost everything we touch and consume. It is completely impossible to have some working knowledge of all of these chemicals. It is far better to avoid them whenever possible. 

Pesticides

Of all of these things we come in contact with, I think the subject of pesticides is my personal soap box. According to the EPA, there are actually acceptable levels of pesticides in the food we eat. Pesticide residues are found in as much as 70% of the produce we consume. But according to the EPA their actions and regulations have led to safer less toxic pesticides and reduced toxicity.  

That being said, pesticides have been directly linked to a long list of health problems. I wonder what would happen if all of the products that contained “acceptable levels” of pesticides were required to be labeled with a warning that said “This product contains acceptable levels of chemicals that have been directly linked to Parkinson’s disease, asthma, macular degeneration, diabetes, prostate, lung, thyroid and bone marrow cancer.” 

Now it is likely impossible to completely eliminate your exposure to pesticides because of their widespread use. But you can limit your exposure by scrubbing and washing your produce, peeling fresh produce if possible. Buy organic whenever you can. Eat a variety of produce to avoid high exposure to a single pesticide. 

Phthalates

Another group of chemicals we are commonly exposed to are phthalates. These chemicals are widely used and almost impossible to void. They are used to make plastic more flexible and more difficult to break. They are also used as a binding agent. Phthalates are widely used. They are commonly used in insect repellents, shampoo, perfume, nail polish, vinyl flooring, mini blinds, wall paper, rain coats, medical equipment and devices, plastic pipes, plastic film, food packaging, pharmaceuticals and detergents. 

Exposure to these chemicals is widespread and it has been shown to be present in the majority of the population. Phthalates are known to be an endocrine disrupting chemical that can alter hormonal balance and cause reproductive disorders. 

You can reduce your exposure by avoiding plastic food containers. Use glass instead and never reheat food in a plastic container. If you must use plastic, those labels with the recycling code 1,2, 4, or 5 are your best choices. 

BPA

Another group of chemicals that is worthy of note is the Bisphenols. This is a group of 40 or so chemicals used to manufacture plastics, epoxy resins and many other products. It has been in use since the 1960s. The most common one you have likely heard of is Bisphenol-A, also known as BPA. It is one of the most widely used chemicals today. 

These chemicals are another endocrine disruptor. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, BPA is a reproductive, developmental and systemic toxicant in animal studies.” 

This group of chemicals is found in food and beverage can liners, food packaging, DVDs, medical equipment, toys, automotive parts, and water bottles. Many plastic products that are labeled as being BPA free simply contain other chemical with similar effects. 

So how do we get exposed? 

The principle source of exposure is through food and drink. You can reduce your exposure by cutting back on the amount of canned food that you consume. If that is not possible, then rinse the food in water. Once again, don’t microwave food in plastic. Avoid plastics with the recycling code of 3 or 7 on the bottom. And choose BPA free water bottles. 

Summary

Now as I have stated before, I am not a conspiracy kind of guy.  I don’t walk around thinking that the birds are government spies, that someone is always watching me, my phone is tapped, I am being tracked all the time.  

However, history is filled with real life examples of true conspiracies and major industry and government cover ups. The tobacco industry spent decades denying and clouding the health risks associated with cigarette smoking. The Ford company knew there were major design problems with the pinto yet they covered it up.  It took the Russian government an astonishing three weeks after the Chernobyl accident to admit there was a problem. The Catholic church spent decades covering up the crimes of their clergy. The United States Public Health Service spent decades running medical experiments on men with syphilis all the while denying them treatment. 

We have known about the possibility of climate change for 127 years. Yet a considerable amount of our politicians still deny the science behind it and continue to delay the transition to renewables. Now the propane industry says their particular fossil fuel actually cleans up the environment. 

And what about the chemicals used in the manufacture of plastics. How long has the industry known of the potential harmful effects of these chemicals? It is unlikely that there will be changes in the near future because it will cost too much money. 

How long will it be before the agricultural industry promotes and uses natural and organic pesticides that are not harmful to the environment and that are not linked to a long list of health problems in humans. This is yet another thing that will no change in the near future so we have to take action to protect ourselves as much as possible. 

You know I was thinking the other day that every time I purchase a product, especially purchasing something online, I am repeatedly asked to write a review. I keep thinking to myself that I truly do not have time to critically review every single product I purchase. Who does?  

But now I am starting to think that maybe that is exactly what we have to do in order to not only protect our health and well being but also to guarantee a transition to a more sustainable future. And during this transition we undoubtedly have to think in terms of consumer beware. After all we live in the age of information. We have access to hundreds of years of information in a matter of seconds. In this day and age of technology ignorance is truly a choice. 

There is no doubt that as our world makes a transition to green energy, as we dramatically reduce our dependence on fossil fuels, as we transition to a circular economy, as buildings and businesses move toward wide spread electrification, as we eliminate single use products, as we transition to more of a local economy instead of globalization, there is going to be a lot of smoke blown in our faces by big business and government that are dead set on protecting their financial interest for as long as possible. 

And that is why we have to inform ourselves and keep this attitude of consumer beware. After all, ExxonMobile has known for decades about the harmful environmental affects of fossil fuels. They clouded the issue and look where we are now.  

I do remember well when I was a kid growing up on the farm. Life seem pretty darn simple. We were self sufficient in many ways. I have little memory of eating store bought meat when I was a kid. We did not travel that much because everything we needed was local. 

But maybe in today’s world that is not possible. As much as I try to have a simple life it still seems far more complicated than it needs to be. It seems we have to be on constant alert if we want to protect our health and well being. It is not as if the whole world is conspiring against us but there are lots of things we are never even told about the products that we use everyday. But at least I have given you a few common areas in your life that you can evaluate very carefully.

And the thing of it is, if you stay informed and truly try to protect your health and well being, this effort will actually make your life more sustainable. I do find it interesting that I find example after example of how living a simple sustainably life is not only healthier but safer, less expensive but also results in more financial freedom and happiness.  

Additionally, I always come back to the same thing that I think about so often. If we all stay informed and make better decisions it is the cumulative affect and power of our individual action that will change the world. If we wait for big business and government to get over their never end board meeting and make a decision to change the world it is the people like you and I that will suffer the consequences. So start making the needed changes in your life to be more sustainable and take that first step to protect your health and well being. 

Now in closing, I want to remind everyone that I often have a whole list of references in the transcript for each episode if you want to do some further reading.  If nothing else it should give you even further motivation to make some much needed changes in your life. 

And of course, don’t forget to take the time to leave me with a review and please subscribe to the Adventures in Sustainable Living podcast as well as my companion blog Off Grid Living News. 

And before I go I want to leave you with one last thought. As you are working to make some positive changes in your life and trying to avoid all the back ground noise in the world that is so distracting, just remember to focusing on designing a lifestyle that supports and nurtures who you are and what you value. 

Well folks, that is all I have for this week. I hope you have enjoyed this episode. And don’t forget to join me again next week.  Until then, this is your host Patrick signing off. Always remember to live sustainably because this is how we build a better future.  

Resources 

The Seven Types of Plastic and What They Mean to Your Health

Propane Industry Illegal Lobbying 

Assessing ExxonMobile’s Global Warming Projections 

The Six Most Toxic Household Chemicals 

Explained: the toxic threat in everyday products 

Patrick