NOSHA

Chemist Janice Padula will discuss “Biosolids for Agricultural Use” at the next meeting of the New Orleans Secular Humanism Association meeting at 3 p.m., Saturday, April 26, at the East Bank Regional Library, 4747 W. Napoleon, Metairie.

Biosolids are the treated, semi-solid byproduct of wastewater treatment, often used as a soil conditioner and fertilizer, containing nutrients and organic matter that can benefit crops and soil health.

While there is no state-wide ban on biosolids in Louisiana, the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality regulates their use and disposal, and there are concerns about potential contamination, including PFAS (“forever chemicals”), that are prompting discussions about stricter regulations.

Janice Padula is a Professor Emeritus of Chemistry and Environmental Science at Clinton Community College in Plattsburgh, New York, where she served for more than 30 years. She holds an associate degree in Applied Science in Science Laboratory Technology – Chemistry from SUNY Cobleskill and both a bachelor and master of science in Chemical Education from SUNY Plattsburgh. Her master’s thesis focused on the degradation kinetics of 17-alpha meth testosterone.

For more information regarding this presentation, contact Chris Smith, Manager of Adult Programming for the library, at 504-889-8143 or wcsmith@jefferson.lib.la.us.