Glyphosate is only one of more than 80,000 registered commercially produced chemicals in the U.S. Some of these compounds, such as PFOA and the one I made my name investigating, hexavalent chromium, have also been convincingly linked to health crises - testicular cancer in the case of PFOA and lung cancer in the case of chromium-6.

In this quote, Erin Brockovich highlights the widespread presence of chemicals in the environment, pointing out that glyphosate is just one of over 80,000 chemicals commercially registered in the U.S. She emphasizes that many of these substances, such as PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid) and hexavalent chromium, have been directly linked to significant health crises. Brockovich specifically mentions that PFOA has been associated with testicular cancer, and chromium-6 has been linked to lung cancer, underscoring the harmful effects of certain chemicals on human health.

Brockovich’s statement is a call to attention about the potential dangers posed by industrial chemicals, many of which are used in everyday products without sufficient regulation or awareness of their long-term health impacts. By referencing her own investigation into hexavalent chromium, she draws attention to the specific role she played in uncovering the link between toxic chemicals and public health, particularly the devastating effects they have on communities exposed to them.

The origin of the quote comes from Brockovich’s work as a consumer advocate and environmental activist, where she became famous for her role in exposing the toxic contamination caused by Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E) in Hinkley, California. Her investigations, particularly regarding the carcinogenic effects of hexavalent chromium, led to a landmark legal case and brought her widespread recognition. Brockovich’s work has focused on raising awareness about environmental health issues and advocating for stricter regulations on toxic substances.

Ultimately, Brockovich’s quote emphasizes the need for greater scrutiny and regulation of chemicals in products and industries, as well as the importance of investigating the long-term health impacts of exposure to these toxic substances. She urges the public to be aware of the dangers posed by chemicals like glyphosate, PFOA, and chromium-6, advocating for greater accountability and protections to safeguard public health.