Just Label It News Roundup 6-8

A recent study published in the Journal of Cleaner Production used U.S. state-level data collected from 1997 to 2010 to better understand how organic farming affects greenhouse gas emissions. Researchers found that a 1 percent increase in organic acreage in the U.S. could reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 0.049 percent. Another study has found that waterbirds from Central China are contaminated with pesticides. A new documentary, “Eating Animals,” narrated by award-winning actress Natalie Portman, explores the economic, environmental and health impacts of factory farming, and its effects on small farmers, consumers and animals. Monsanto often assailed for its impacts on the earth and human health, will shed its moniker after German giant Bayer officially acquires it on Thursday.

Pesticide contamination in birds in China

A new study published in Environmental Geochemistry and Health has found that waterbirds from Central China are contaminated with pesticides. Researchers tested for twenty-one organochlorine pesticides in the muscles of six common waterbird species. DDTs, which are now banned, were the most prevalent pesticide found, suggesting that residues from historical use were the source of contamination. The pesticide heptachlor was also found in the muscles of ducks at levels high enough to pose a potential risk to humans consuming them. Learn more from The Organic Center.

Organic farming can reduce greenhouse gas emissions

A recent study published in the Journal of Cleaner Production used U.S. state level data collected from 1997 – 2010 to better understand how organic farming affects greenhouse gas emissions. Researchers found that a one percent increase in organic acreage in the U.S. could reduce greenhouse gas emissions by .049%. “The current study provides evidence supporting potential GHG mitigation benefits associated with organic food production. Policymakers and scientists can build on these results to further develop the evidence base and policies needed to quantify and maximize the benefits of adopting organic farming practices,” they concluded.

Impacts of Factory Farming Explored in New Documentary

A new documentary narrated by award-winning actress Natalie Portman, Eating Animals, explores the economic, environmental, and health impacts of factory farming and its effects on small farmers, consumers, and animals. Based on Jonathan Safran Foer’s book by the same name, the film offers a glimpse into how factory farming has transformed not only the United States, but also the world. The film presents traditional farming as the way forward into the future of farming and agriculture.

Bayer to Ditch Monsanto Name after Mega-Merger

The name Monsanto is no more but not necessarily for reasons that would satisfy the seed and pesticide company’s many critics. Monsanto, often assailed for its impact on the earth and on human health, will shed its moniker after German giant Bayer officially acquires the company on Thursday.