Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA)

Did you see this in the news recently? OEHHA’s Dr. Álvaro Alvarado and Dr. Laurel Plummer (and former OEHHAn Amy Budahn, MPH) published a study in collaboration with University of California, Berkeley and University of Washington showing that Californians are breathing far less pollution from vehicles than they were 25 years ago. Exposure to PM2.5 from cars, trucks and other vehicles dropped by 65%. Black, Latino, and Asian American communities have seen the biggest improvements, narrowing disparities in exposure levels (See A in the graphic). However, these communities are still exposed at higher rates than White Californians, a relative gap that did not change much over the study period (See B in the graphic). The study concludes that closing that gap will take actions that prioritize communities most impacted by air pollution. To conduct the study, the research team developed a new open-source tool called ECHO-AIR using an existing air pollution model called InMAP and CARB’s best estimates of on-road vehicle emissions from the EMissions FACtor regulatory model. The study is part of OEHHA’s ongoing efforts to assess the effects of California’s climate actions on communities experiencing poverty and pollution to inform equitable climate solutions. Read the press release at https://lnkd.in/gfAhdTBm, and the full article in “Science Advances” at https://lnkd.in/gN3zDvwG. To learn more about OEHHA’s work in this area, visit https://lnkd.in/gX3mPTdx. #EnvironmentalJustice

Today we’re celebrating Paula Torrado Plazas — one of 100 awardees featured in a new social impact art project “Alta / A Human Atlas of a City of Angels.” Paula is an environmental justice leader and OEHHA’s Racial Equity and Environmental Justice manager. Today’s award features Paula as one of 100 remarkable individuals making positive change in LA County.

Save the date! 📆 Join the California Air Resources Board on Oct. 23 to hear from the recipients of the 2023 Haagen-Smit Clean Air Awards. The Clean Air Awards recognize extraordinary individuals who have made significant career accomplishments in air quality and climate change.

Do you have a PhD in Biostatistics or Epidemiology, and are looking to conduct research with a public health impact? OEHHA is seeking a biostatistician to join our Cancer Toxicology and Epidemiology Section and work on highly complex epidemiological and cancer bioassay datasets. Read more at https://lnkd.in/g7D6QwPv.   Our employees enjoy hybrid telework opportunities, paid leave, a work-life balance, and excellent retirement and health benefits. Before applying, first review the minimum qualifications and join the eligibility list, which you can do online at https://lnkd.in/g83M5aMD (Research Scientist IV – Epi/Bio) or https://lnkd.in/gGAxviRE (Research Scientist III – Epi/Bio). Come join our team!   #OEHHACareers #Work4CA

On #IndigenousPeoplesDay, we’d like to take a moment to honor the cultures and languages from some of the many Tribes in California. Here is a brief hello from various Tribal members who were at the State Water Resources Control Board's Cultural Heritage Pavilion at California’s Native American Day event last month.

OEHHA proudly joins the California Native American Day festivities at the Capitol today! We honor the rich history and culture of California’s indigenous peoples and their essential contribution to ecological wisdom and stewardship. Together, let us work to dismantle stereotypes, acknowledge struggles, and celebrate overdue victories! #NativeAmericanDay #CaliforniaNativeAmericanDay #EnvironmentalJustice #TribalHistory #IndigenousPeoples

🌎On #WorldEnvironmentalHealthDay, we recognize the vital link between environmental health and human lives. Let’s recommit to our well-being by embracing sustainable practices like reducing emissions, conserving water, and minimizing waste! 

Please join us tomorrow!

OEHHA is partnering with California State University, Bakersfield and Fresno ABIRC to serve the Hmong community better. Nancy Villaseñor, our health educator, met with Fresno ABIRC to brainstorm ways to adapt OEHHA’s pesticide educational materials for Hmong farmers, farmworkers, and traditional healers—ensuring they're not just translated but culturally relevant too. Check out our current resources: https://lnkd.in/g_njGPAF

Today DPR unveiled its new, streamlined online pesticide registration system! Take a virtual tour to learn more about how the system will improve timeliness and transparency into the registration process.