The Mount Sinai Institute for Exposomic Research is pleased to co-convene the 2021 National Pesticide Forum (May 24 & 25, June 1, 8 & 15) for the second time in partnership with Beyond Pesticides, an organization that works with allies in communities across the country to eliminate the use of toxic pesticides. We hope you will join us for the program.

The forum is an opportunity to meet and share stories and strategies with scientists, policymakers, practitioners, advocates, and activists who are working to confront health threats, climate disasters, and biodiversity collapse with a toxic-free future.
Hear directly from an amazing assembly of expert speakers, including:
- The Honorable Joe Neguse (D-CO), U.S House of Representatives, cosponsor of the Resolution on National Biodiversity Strategy.
- Bertha Lewis, The Black Institute, successful advocate for banning pesticides in New York City parks. Read the report: Poison Parks.
- Jeff Moyer, Rodale Institute, a leader in regenerative organic agriculture.
- Tom Lovejoy, PhD, the “Godfather of Biodiversity” and founder of the Amazon Biodiversity Center.
- Mount Sinai environmental health researchers will participate in sessions throughout the forum, including:
- Robert O. Wright, MD, MPH, Co-Director, Mount Sinai Institute for Exposomic Research and Chair, Environmental Medicine and Public Health
- Sarah Evans, PhD, MPH, Assistant Professor, Environmental Medicine and Public Health
- Maida Galvez, MD, MPH, Professor, Environmental Medicine and Public Health
- Luz Guel, Community Engagement Coordinator, Environmerntal Medicine and Public Health
- Corina Lesseur, PhD, MD, Assistant Professor, Environmental Medicine and Public Health
- Shanna Swan, PhD, Professor, Environmental Medicine and Public Health

“Pesticides interfere with brain development, are linked to cancer, and can disrupt hormones. Passage of Intro 1524 is a critical step towards protecting children’s health by eliminating the use of these chemicals where they live, learn, and play,”
Sarah Evans, PhD, MPH, Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
Related: NYC Victory: Pesticides Bill Passes

With the recent passage of a bill banning pesticides from NYC parks and public spaces sponsored by Council Member Ben Kallos and 31 other members, we have much to celebrate. We applaud the City and thank Beyond Pesticides and other individuals and organizations that worked tirelessly during the past 7 years in support of this progressive legislation. Special thanks to Paula Rogovin, a retired New York City school teacher who inspired her kindergarten students to take on this local issue.
Read more: press release, New York Times article