ChemFORWARD's Heather McKenney Appointed to California's Green Ribbon Science Panel
Durham, NC – December 10, 2024
ChemFORWARD, a non-profit organization committed to advancing safer chemistry, announced today that Heather McKenney, Science and Safer Chemistry Lead for the organization, has been appointed to the prestigious Green Ribbon Science Panel (GRSP) by the California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC). The GRSP is composed of preeminent scientists and technical experts who provide advice and input on critical green chemistry and chemicals policy matters to support the Safer Consumer Products (SCP) Program. The first meeting for McKenney will take place in Sacramento, California on December 10th and 11th.
“As a California resident, it’s an honor to join the Green Ribbon Science Panel and support the DTSC’s implementation of the Safer Consumer Products Program for the products available in my community,” said McKenney. “Regulations play a key role in the development and availability of products created using safer chemistry. The SCP program is at the forefront of enhancing access to consumer products which are safer for people and the environment.”
McKenney’s background in toxicology and safer chemistry, coupled with her practical experience regarding supply chain complexities and unwavering dedication to environmental justice, make her a valuable addition to the GRSP. In her role at ChemFORWARD, she leads efforts to enhance access to high-quality chemical hazard data and amplify safer alternatives. She also oversees the quality and integrity of data within ChemFORWARD's data trust and plays a key role in science communication.
Prior to joining ChemFORWARD, McKenney led the Toxicology & Product Safety team at The Honest Company. There, she oversaw ingredient and product safety review as well as clinical safety testing. She has also been actively involved in the March of Dimes' Mom and Baby Action Network (M-BAN), supporting their goal of achieving equity in maternal and infant health by mitigating high-risk environmental exposures.
"Heather's expertise in leveraging science for safer chemistry aligns with the GRSP's mission to advance green chemistry and sustainable chemical policies. Her dedication to environmental justice and her experience in empowering industries to identify and eliminate hazardous chemicals make her an invaluable asset to the panel. We are confident that Heather's contributions will be instrumental in shaping a healthier and more sustainable future for California and beyond." said Stacy Glass, co-founder and Executive Director of ChemFORWARD.
About ChemFORWARD
ChemFORWARD is a science-based, non-profit organization working to transform global supply chains with access to chemical hazard data that will accelerate the transition to safer chemistry.
About the Green Ribbon Science Panel
The Green Ribbon Science Panel (GRSP) is an advisory body that provides scientific and technical expertise to the California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) on matters related to green chemistry and the Safer Consumer Products (SCP) program.
