It’s hard to imagine life without plastic.
It’s in our food, our houses, and products we use every day.
The rise of plastic usage in the last few decades has been a mark of unrelenting technological progress, but one that drags behind it untold consequences.
Research over the last few years has shown that plastics are not only negatively impacting the environment and wildlife, but are creating disastrous consequences for humans.
Below are just a few of the types of common plastics and their effects on human health.
READ MORE: How to Stop Plastic Pollution In The Ocean
Microplastics & Human Health
Microplastics are pieces of plastic that are 5mm in size or less.
They’re released from common household items such as sofas, carpets, or curtains, and are also found in food (specifically produce, seafood, and salt).
Humans can easily ingest these tiny pieces of plastic, especially because they don’t biodegrade, and inadvertently ingest chemical additives that can cause cancer, infertility, and neurodevelopmental disorders.
Most microplastics that are consumed orally pass through the body, but the smallest particles can actually enter the bloodstream and make their ways to vital organs.
This can cause oxidative stress, DNA damage, and inflammation (which has been linked to a variety of further health problems, including Alzheimer’s).
BPA - What is it & How Harmful is it?
You’ve probably recognize the name of this plastic from seeing “BPA-free” labels on some cans in the grocery store.
But what exactly is BPA, and why is it so harmful?
Bisphenol A, commonly known as BPA, is an endocrine-disrupting chemical found in too many everyday products to name.
Water bottles, canned food, and plastic containers are some of the most common culprits.
When BPA breaks down, it can easily enter the body through food and water and interfere with hormone function.
This can be especially disastrous to the proper development of infants and children.
What are Phthalates?
Phthalates are a type of acid found mostly in a variety flexible plastics, which in turn are used to make objects such as children’s toys, shampoo, vinyl flooring, and food packaging.
Once phthalates enter the world in these products, they are released into the air through surface contact, the manufacturing process, the simple usage of PVC products, and the disposal of said products.
Because phthalates are so innately included in so many everyday items, escaping their use would be next to impossible.
However:
Research has linked phthalates with birth defects, insulin resistance, reproductive issues, and endocrine disruption.
what can be done to protect human health from plastic waste?
Although plastic pollution is increasing every year, there are things we can do now as a society and as individuals to help curb the effects of plastic that are harmful to humans and animal health.
Support organizations invested in cleaning up ocean-bound plastic
Reduce your own plastic use
Join in clean up efforts across the globe
Organize events in your community to spread awareness about plastic pollution
There are many ways to help reduce the amount of harmful plastics in the ocean.
Start today to help improve the lives and health of many people, including your own, by reducing the harmful effects of plastic pollution everywhere.
Our mission is to reduce this urgent problem and we need your help to do it!
What have you done to reduce plastic waste in your community?