Blog

Important research & policy updates, and work from our Institute

Antimicrobial Science News: April 2026

More and more studies are being published on the harms—and often, lack of benefit—of antimicrobials but are flying under the radar. In these newsletters we will be sharing notable new peer-reviewed research related to quaternary ammonium compounds (QACs) and other antimicrobials used in consumer products. In the past month, there have been studies published finding links to reproductive, cardiovascular, neurological, and skin harms as well as antimicrobial resistance.

Antimicrobial Science News: February 2026

In the past month, there have been studies published on antimicrobials finding lack of efficacy, environmental contamination, and human exposure, as well as links to neurological harm, endocrine disruption, dermatitis, and antimicrobial resistance.

Antimicrobial Science News: January 2026

More and more studies are being published on the harms—and often, lack of benefit—of antimicrobials but are flying under the radar. In the past month, there have been studies finding links between antimicrobials and neurological, cardiological, and skin harms as well as antimicrobial resistance and pollution.

Arlene Blum Named Forbes Sustainability Leader

We're proud to announce that our Executive Director Arlene Blum was one of 50 global changemakers selected for the 2024 Forbes Sustainability Leaders list. The honorees "span industries and disciplines while all demonstrating exceptional ambition, innovation, and recent, tangible impact that is both scalable and sustainable. No greenwashing allowed — we looked for people making a real difference in their field," Forbes says. This year’s esteemed panel of judges was comprised of Sylvia Earle, Laurene Powell Jobs, Bill McKibben, Nnimmo Bassey, and Tom Baruch.

Washing the Outdoors with Harmful Disinfectants?

Have you ever noticed moss, mold, or algae growing on your driveway, roof, or deck? This problem can not only be unsightly, but it can also pose slip hazards and deteriorate building materials. Many homeowners and property managers turn to outdoor biocide products as a quick fix. Unfortunately, these products increasingly contain harmful quaternary ammonium compounds (QACs or quats) which can create much deeper problems for our health and environment.

Antimicrobials in Gyms—Health Help or Harm?

Many gyms ask users to spray or wipe equipment with unnecessary disinfectants. Gyms could save money and provide a healthier environment by switching to soap and water.

A New Approach to Healthy Materials

Anyone who plays a role in choosing products – a retailer, manufacturer, purchaser, product developer, owner, builder, or specifier – can help reduce the use of harmful chemicals. Choosing healthier materials not only protects the environment, your customers and employees, it’s also good for business. It can improve market differentiation, avoid brand liability, and support compliance with government regulations.