Plastic poses a serious threat to our well-being – our decisions hold the key to preventing harm.
It is imperative to understand that plastic pollution extends beyond mere waste management; it has now been unequivocally established as a public health concern. Professor Sarah Dunlop, leading the Plastics and Human Health division at the Minderoo Foundation, emphasizes the growing evidence linking plastic to detrimental effects on human health. With the projected increase in plastic production, this issue demands urgent attention.
Recently, in collaboration with esteemed researchers, the Minderoo Foundation unveiled a comprehensive analysis in the Annals of Global Health, shedding light on the multiple hazards associated with plastic, both to human health and the world’s oceans. The study also exposed the astonishing economic ramifications arising from the extraction of fossil carbon feedstocks to the chemicals released during the everyday use and disposal of plastics.
Among the study’s significant findings lies the perilous nature of the chemicals employed in plastic manufacturing. Awareness is steadily mounting regarding the release of harmful substances, such as bisphenol A, phthalates, and PFAS, during the usage and disposal of plastics, often without adequate labeling.
Approximately a quarter of the more than 10,000 distinct chemicals employed in plastics are of either high or medium concern regarding human health and safety. Alarming yet true, almost 40% lack hazard classification, leaving their potential harm unknown.
The impact of plastic on human beings is far-reaching. Vulnerable groups such as pregnant women, young children, and unborn babies face particular dangers as these chemicals disrupt crucial hormones responsible for proper development. Plastic chemicals have been linked to reduced IQ and respiratory diseases in children, while adults suffer from obesity, cancer, and diminished fertility in both men and women. Studies indicate that women exposed to such chemicals are more likely to experience reproductive disorders, including endometriosis.
Apart from chemical exposure through everyday plastic items, health hazards arise from the air and water pollution resulting from plastic manufacturing. This cycle begins with the extraction of coal, oil, and gas (which account for 98% of plastic’s fossil carbon sources). The incineration of plastic during disposal releases toxic gases and metals with carcinogenic properties. The resulting polluted ash can seep into the soil and contaminate groundwater.
Even though the right to a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment has been declared a human right, individuals working in plastic production and those residing near plastic manufacturing and waste disposal sites endure hazardous air pollution and water contamination. Plastic production workers face an increased risk of leukemia, lymphoma, brain cancer, and breast cancer, while children in these communities exhibit higher rates of leukemia.
The production of plastic leads to air pollution in the form of particulate matter, amplifying the risks of cardiovascular disease, stroke, lung cancer, and diabetes in adults. Infants and children face an elevated likelihood of premature birth and low birthweight, both of which are risk factors for chronic diseases later in life. Furthermore, this type of air pollution heightens the chances of stillbirth, impaired lung development, and asthma.
While research on plastic pollution and environmental microplastics has seen significant advancements in the past decade, scientists acknowledge the pressing need for improved technology and techniques to detect micro and nano-sized plastic particles within human tissues.
To safeguard our health, protect human rights, and conserve our planet, it is crucial to take small steps towards adopting a plastic-free lifestyle.
To minimize exposure to harmful plastic chemicals, opt for non-plastic containers to store food and beverages, and avoid heating food in plastic. Be cautious about fast food served in plastic packaging at high temperatures, as it enables chemical migration into the food. Similarly, refrain from using plastic cups for hot drinks and discard plastic kitchen utensils.
Although eliminating plastic entirely can be challenging, there are safer alternatives for kitchen products. Materials like glass, stainless steel, bamboo, and wood provide healthier options for food storage and preparation.
When it comes to babies and children, choose clothing made from natural fibers and avoid PVC plastic toys or cups. Be mindful of PVC (vinyl) “wipe clean” bibs, as they may contain chemicals that can leach out. Additionally, the plastic images embossed onto babies’ and children’s clothes can also harbor harmful substances.
By opting for reusable products and rejecting single-use plastic options, we can significantly reduce our impact on the environment.
It is also crucial to engage with our government representatives and advocate for a review of the latest scientific findings on the health impacts of plastic. We must urge them to update chemical regulations and ensure that plastic policies do not exacerbate the problem or contribute to social injustices.
While individual behavior changes are important, governments must expedite the implementation of bans on unnecessary single-use plastics and strive to reduce the complexity and toxicity of plastic. Plastic producers must take responsibility for safer and more sustainable operations and products across the entire value chain to secure a healthier future for all.