Dr. Rachel Massey - Toxics Use Reduction Institute

Dr. Rachel Massey is Senior Associate Director and Policy Program Manager at the Toxics Use Reduction Institute at the University of Massachusetts Lowell. TURI's program was established as part of the Toxics Use Reduction Act of 1989, designed to protect public health and the environment while enhancing the competitiveness of MA businesses.Three partners work together to make the Toxic Use Reduction legislation effective in reducing pollution: 1. EPA in Massachusetts2. Office of Technical Assistance and Technology3. TURIThis is the gold standard practice, in the field of toxics reduction. They focus on reducing chemical hazards, not just limiting exposure. This is how Massachusetts was able to reduced their toxic use by 234 million pounds. Less chemicals, less exposures. ​Rachel's work includes policy development and program management internally and throughout the state of Massachusetts. She also manages TURI’s community grant program. Dr. Massey speaks on this show about examples of companies reducing toxics and saving money, such as dry cleaning vs. wet cleaning and artificial turf vs. organic grass fields.