 |
  |
"If the public becomes more aware of the environmental dangers of lead wheel weights and is given alternative wheel balancing choices then there will be a decrease in lead entering the environment. It is important that we make sure that the water we drink and the air we breathe is free of lead." TEAM DEAD WEIGHT  
Team Dead Weight Suggests A Community Model To Phase In Lead Free Wheel Weights. All communities benefit if lead in wheel weights is phased out. If a safe substance is used in wheel weights, lead is eliminated from entering the environment. There is a solution to the problem. Replicating our model in other communities can be accomplished: 1) through surveys, brochures and presentations to increase awareness of citizens, policy makers, and tire service owners about the hazards of lead wheel weights and the alternative of installing lead free wheel weights; 2) by crafting bills to phase out the installation of lead wheel weights; and 3) by working with legislators, the DNR, and environmental committees to encourage them to support the bills to become law. Ultimately, our goal is to eliminate the lead in wheel weights. To accomplish this, we recommend replication by communities that share our vision. Our website, <www.leadzero.org>, informs the public about the hazards of lead wheel weights. For communities to proceed with the project, we recommend conducting research to learn of health problems associated with lead wheel weights. Success includes the need to: 1) establish partnerships with research facilities to complete lead solubility testing; 2) create educational materials to improve community awareness; 3) work cooperatively with community decision makers to phase out lead wheel weights on city vehicles; 4) contact state policy makers to craft a bill to present to legislative committees; and 5) know a significant difference can be made in the community.
We began working on our issue in August. The time required depends on:
1) establishing partnerships withscientists, tire centers, and policy makers;
2) making presentations to community citizens; 3) contacting legislators; and
4) once the legislative process begins, contacting policy makers. Commitment,
dedication and persistence are key components for success. Currently, |