08/06/2026
We hear the term “forever chemicals” a lot but do they really have to be forever?
This week, Marie Ronnander joined us and shared some fascinating research around PFAS and what scientists are learning about breaking down these stubborn pollutants.
Marie spent two years researching PFAS at the University of Minnesota’s Wackett Lab before heading to Girona, Spain, on a Fulbright Research Scholarship to study enzyme design. She gave us a look at how researchers are exploring the use of enzymes to break down PFAS and why that work could matter for our water, environment and communities.
We also shared an update on an international Rotary partnership that our club is proud to be a part of. The Rotary Club of Eau Claire has been working alongside fellow Rotarians in Accra, Ghana, on the “Protect Your Pearl” project in the fight against cervical cancer — and that work continues.
We showcased a video from Ghana showing some of that work in action. It’s a great reminder that being part of Rotary connects our Eau Claire club to people and communities around the world, giving us opportunities to make an impact far beyond our own backyard.
Here's a link to the video we showed:
https://youtu.be/AlOJQjjoufw?si=hXsmsINtFTqMkVIo
Thank you, Marie, for joining us and sharing your knowledge with our club and thank you to our fellow Rotarians in Ghana for continuing this important work!
