MOTHERS & OTHERS, 1989-2001.

For the past 12 years, the environmental group Mothers & Others has been providing consumers with valuable information about the dangerous chemicals that have become ubiquitous in our consumer society. In perhaps its most famous fight, Mothers & Others, with actress Meryl Streep as spokesperson, led a campaign in the late 1980s against the use of the chemical daminozide. This suspected carcinogen, also known as alar, was sprayed on apples so they'd ripen simultaneously. The group also created regional Shoppers' Campaigns, launched the CORE Values eco-label (see "An Apple a Day," In Brief, November/December 1999) and led campaigns against genetic engineering and for organic cotton.

Sadly, in March, Mothers & Others announced that it was closing its doors, citing "chronic fiscal problems." According to Executive Director Elizabeth Marx, "We have decided that our programs and publications are better assured long-term success if they find new institutional homes." Though its website will be in place for several more months, the group's membership will shift to two ongoing organizations, Co-op America and the Center for a New American Dream.

Mothers and Others' excellent publication, The Green Guide, is temporarily ceasing production, but a relaunch by another environmental sponsor is a strong possibility. CONTACT: Mothers & Others, www.mothers.org. Members wondering about the fate of The Green Guide can receive updates by sending e-mail to: subscriptions @yourgreenguide.org.