Health, Sacred Sky Sacred Earth

GMO Corn Linked To Organ Failure

“We therefore conclude that our data strongly suggests that these GM maize varieties induce a state of hepatorenal toxicity. This can be due to the new pesticides (herbicide or insecticide) present specifically in each type of GM maize, although unintended metabolic effects due to the mutagenic properties of the GM transformation process cannot be excluded [42]. All three GM maize varieties contain a distinctly different pesticide residue associated with their particular GM event (glyphosate and AMPA in NK 603, modified Cry1Ab in MON 810, modified Cry3Bb1 in MON 863). These substances have never before been an integral part of the human or animal diet and therefore their health consequences for those who consume them, especially over long time periods are currently unknown. Furthermore, any side effect linked to the GM event will be unique in each case as the site of transgene insertion and the spectrum of genome wide mutations will differ between the three modified maize types. In conclusion, our data presented here strongly recommend that additional long-term (up to 2 years) animal feeding studies be performed in at least three species, preferably also multi-generational, to provide true scientifically valid data on the acute and chronic toxic effects of GM crops, feed and foods. Our analysis highlights that the kidneys and liver as particularly important on which to focus such research as there was a clear negative impact on the function of these organs in rats consuming GM maize varieties for just 90 days.”

Health, Man and Nature

USDA Clears Planting of GM Alfalfa

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has approved the planting of genetically engineered alfalfa, rejecting regulations that the department proposed last month.

The USDA has decided not to regulate alfalfa that has been genetically modified (GM) to be resistant to the Roundup herbicide, made by Monsanto, which also makes the Roundup Ready GM alfalfa.

Last month the USDA signalled that it might approve GM alfalfa with certain restrictions, but the plan approved Thursday contained no such conditions, Reuters said.

Health, Man and Nature

Not so Inert Round-up

“…. in the new study, scientists found that Roundup’s inert ingredients amplified the toxic effect on human cells—even at concentrations much more diluted than those used on farms and lawns.

One specific inert ingredient, polyethoxylated tallowamine, or POEA, was more deadly to human embryonic, placental and umbilical cord cells than the herbicide itself – a finding the researchers call “astonishing.”

Health, Man and Nature

Diesel Water Fit to Drink?

“Oil and gas companies acknowledged using diesel fuel in their fracking fluids, but they rejected the House Democrats’ assertion that it was illegal. They said that the E.P.A. had never properly developed rules and procedures to regulate the use of diesel in fracking, despite a clear grant of authority from Congress over the issue. “

Art, CoSA, Man and Nature, Sacred Sky Sacred Earth

John Flood

While ramping up the next Sacred Sky Sacred Earth: Coronado (Sunday March 20, 2011) event I had a wonderful meeting with John Flood. John is an incredible percussionist and also has deep-rooted concerns regarding environmental issues. During our meeting he brought the following video up as an illustration of an educational objective with students. If you haven’t seen it, it is worth viewing. John’s website is here.

TEREZAKIS