In this edition of Eco Report, Delaney Barber-Kwon of Indiana Conservation Voters discusses legislative developments and Indiana ranking fiftieth in the nation for environmental quality.

Scented products like wax melts and flame-free candles may seem harmless, but research shows they can release air pollutants into homes, offices and schools. Nusrat Jung is an assistant professor at the Lyles School of Civil and Construction Engineering at Purdue University.

She and her team conduct emission tests to understand the impact of fragrance products on indoor environments. Jung says that while people may enjoy the scent of fragrances such as wax melts, they could be putting themselves at-risk of air pollutants.

Jung explained that through extensive testing, her team found that flame-free candles are not pollutant free. Jung says that she wants to better understand the negative impacts of inhaling these types of aerosols.

Jung and her colleagues conducted an air pollution experiment at Purdue’s test house. If you have concerns about air quality – alternatives are available, such as unscented products or natural, plant-based alternatives.

Furthermore, good ventilation or using an air purifier can help remove pollutants. All in all, Jung says that more research is needed to understand the long-term health implications of exposure to flame-free candles.

WTIU NEWS reports President Trump told American farmers to “bear with me” regarding new tariffs, but Indiana’s Corn Growers Association and Soybean Alliance are asking the state’s congressional delegation to intervene.

During his address to Congress, Trump said new tariffs against Mexico, Canada, and China will “be great for the American farmer.” He also said America’s ag products are superior to imported ones, and that farmers are going to have a “field day” selling in their home market.

On Wednesday, the Indiana’s Corn Growers Association and Soybean Alliance released a statement asking for a “swift resolution” to the issue.

“As Indiana’s soybean and corn farmers begin to prepare for the spring planting season, they are closely watching lower bushel prices and higher input costs,” Brian Warpup, chair of the ISA’s Membership and Policy Committee, said in a statement. “This year’s crop was already shaping up to be a challenge, but with the added complication of increased tariffs, farmers fear that fewer exports will lead to higher stocks and even lower bushel prices.”

In this edition of Eco Report, Delaney Barber-Kwon of Indiana Conservation Voters discusses legislative developments and Indiana ranking fiftieth in the nation for environmental quality.

  • Take an Earth Week Wildflower Walk at Winslow Woods Park on Saturday, April 19th, from 2 to 3:30 pm. Discover the beauty of this urban forest in springtime. Register at bloomington.IN.gov/parks.
  • Experience the magic of nature on a Full Pink Moon Night Hike on Saturday, April 12th, from 8:30 to 10 pm at Griffy Lake Nature Preserve. Walk through tranquil woods to listen to the beauty of the night by moonlight. Register at bloomington.in.gov/parks.
  • A Salt Creek Wildflowers Hike beginning at the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Office at Monroe Lake will take place on Wednesday, April 16th, beginning at 1 pm. You will get to see the unusual white-blooming form of Virginia Bluebells. The hike is 2 hours long. Sign up at tinyurl.com/scwildflowers2025.
  • A Woodcock Walk is scheduled at Goose Pond Fish and Wildlife Area on Saturday, April 19th, from 7:30 to 9 pm. This evening excursion will, hopefully, allow you to watch the American Woodcock perform its mating ritual – the sky dance. Register with Ethan Plumier at 812-512-9159 or go to GoosePondFWA@dnr.IN.gov to register.
  • Learn about Rugged Plants at McCormick’s Creek State Park on Sunday, April 20th, from 4 to 4:45 pm. Meet the Naturalist at the Centennial Shelter to hike on the new Echo Canyon Trail to learn about plants that grow in acidic and rocky soil.

Credits:

On Air…………………………………Julianna Dailey
On Air………………………………..Cynthia Roberts
Headlines………………………………….Norm Holy
Feature Report……………………………..Zero Roze
Script…………………………………..Julianna Dailey
Events Calendar………………………Julianna Dailey
Engineer…………………………….Branden Blewett

Are you looking for a way to make a difference on environmental issues? Eco Report is looking for reporters, engineers, and segment producer to report facts on how we’re all affected by global climate disruption and the ongoing assaults on our air, land and water. We also celebrate ecologists, tree huggers, soil builders and other champions who actively protect and restore our natural world, particularly those who are active in south central Indiana. All levels of experience and all ages are welcome, and we provide the training you’ll need. WFHB also offers internships.

To volunteer for Eco Report, call at (812) 323-1200, or e-mail earth@wfhb.org.