Glossary

Decode the eco-speak with our friendly glossary list of green buzzwords and certifications.

Aflatoxin: A known human carcinogen caused by the infestation of molds, most commonly seen on legumes, including peanuts. The toxin has been found in peanuts and peanut butter as well as corn, rice, wheat, soy beans and sorghum. The USDA is responsible for testing peanuts and peanut products to insure that they do not exceed acceptable levels of aflatoxin. While new methods for eliminating these molds are being implemented, there is still some concern over the long-term effects of ingesting low levels of aflatoxin.
Alkylphenol Ethoxylates (APEs): A common surfactant found in laundry detergents. APEs can damage the immune system, and they are a suspected hormone disruptor, which means they can mimic hormones in the body that regulate reproduction and development. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has also warned that ethoxylated alcohol surfactants, such as APEs, may be contaminated with carcinogenic 1,4-dioxane, which penetrates skin. Tests conducted in 1997 by the Washington Toxics Coalition found that supermarket or drugstore labels are more likely to contain APEs than name brands.
Algal Bloom: A rapid increase in the algae populations in a particular aquatic region, often the result of excess nitrogen and phosphorous from fertilizers that run off into rivers and streams. Algae blooms deprive waterways of oxygen and kill off aquatic life. Such an algal bloom has created a "dead zone" in the Gulf of Mexico the size of New Jersey.
Ammoniacal Copper Quaternary: A less-toxic wood preservative made of copper, which is a fungicide, and the insecticide quaternary ammonium. Though the preservative is a healthier option than Chromated Copper Arsenate (CCA), its environmental effects are unknown.
Antimony: A metal found in the Earth’s crust used in lead batteries and pipes. Antimony oxide is added to plastics, textiles, paints, metals and glass to prevent objects from catching fire. Large amounts of exposure to antimony can lead to adverse health effects including lung, heart, liver and kidney damage.