Chris Kupka

BCAM presented its third workshop for members and guests on Saturday, May 13th, when international environmentalist, health activist and BCAM member Beverly Thorpe spoke on "Chemicals out of control: The chemical link to breast cancer and how to campaign for safer products". Bev campaigns for Clean Production Action, working with companies to foster the use of green chemistry principles in the manufacturing process. Her work regularly takes her outside North America, making her aware of how toxic and hazardous chemicals are being eliminated in other regions. She is an outspoken activist against the use of toxic chemicals in Canada, and agreed to speak at our half-day interactive workshop to both enlighten us and to assist us in initiating a campaign aimed at a toxic-free future.

Approximately 50 receptive people attended as Bev presented a power point program which discussed, among other issues, unregulated and hazardous chemicals, safer cosmetics, green chemistry and the CEPA 1999 (Canadian Environmental Protection Act). After a lively question and discussion period, there was a break for light refreshments during which audience members were asked to choose a discussion group.

Each participant joined one of three groups designed to generate ideas and actions to raise public awareness of unregulated chemicals in our environment. BCAM facilitators kept the discussion on target and recorded ideas generated by the groups. The "Food, Pesticides and Government Regulations" group, for example, focused on approaching the federal government to influence the current review of CEPA 1999. The "Safer Cosmetics" group discussed consciousness-raising, networking and education about harmful chemicals in personal care products. The "Getting the Message Out" group decided that the message to be conveyed was that cancer is epidemic, that primary prevention is important, and that information about primary prevention must be available.

During the wrap-up, a spokesperson from each group summarized the results of their discussions. Bev was encouraging and pleased with the work accomplished by the participants and gave pointers about how to take it even further by, for instance, creating a campaign around an issue.

It was a busy, interesting and stimulating day for BCAM members and guests. The majority of those in attendance liked what they heard and want more. We thank Bev Thorpe for her time and expertise in making the workshop a success.