Sofia Martinez
Plastic is ubiquitous in modern life due to its lightweight, low cost, and versatility. However, many plastic products contain toxic chemicals that can leach into our food, escape into indoor air, and contaminate our environment. These chemicals are added to plastics to enhance their flexibility, flame resistance, stain resistance, or durability, but they have been linked to various health issues, including cancer, infertility, and neurodevelopmental disorders. With over 13,000 chemicals associated with plastics, urgent action is needed to address this issue as part of the global fight against plastic pollution.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of chemicals associated with plastics | More than 13,000 |
| Number of chemicals of concern | 3,200+ |
| Chemicals of major concern | Flame retardants, UV stabilizers, PFASs, phthalates, bisphenols, biocides, certain metals and metalloids, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, NIAS |
| Products containing chemicals of concern | Toys, food contact materials, electrical and electronic equipment, vehicles, synthetic textiles, furniture, medical devices, personal care and household products, plastic wrap, bath mats, yoghurt containers, coffee cup lids |
| Impact on health | Endocrine disruption, fertility issues, metabolic disease, obesity, ADHD, prostate and mammary cancer, brain development problems, lower IQ, hormone disruption |
| Impact on the environment | Air, water and soil pollution |
| Impact on communities | Higher cancer rates in communities near plastic production sites, particularly Black communities |
| Action required | Urgent action required to address chemicals in plastics as part of global action on plastic pollution |
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What You'll Learn
Bisphenol A (BPA)
BPA is used in various products, including shatterproof windows, eyewear, water bottles, and epoxy resins that coat some metal food cans, bottle tops, and water supply pipes. The primary source of exposure to BPA for most people is through their diet, with BPA in food and beverages accounting for the majority of daily human exposure. It can also be found in the air, dust, and water. BPA can leach into food from the protective internal epoxy resin coatings of canned foods and from consumer products such as polycarbonate tableware, food storage containers, water bottles, and baby bottles.
There are concerns about the potential health effects of exposure to BPA, especially for infants and children who may be more vulnerable to its effects. Some animal studies have reported impacts on fetuses and newborns exposed to BPA. Due to these concerns, the use of BPA in baby bottles has been banned in the EU and some other jurisdictions. The EU has also set limits on the amount of BPA allowed in toys for children up to three years old and any toys intended to be placed in a child's mouth.
BPA has a high melting point but can easily dissolve in organic solvents like toluene, ethanol, and ethyl acetate. It can be purified through recrystallization from acetic acid with water. Bromination of BPA forms tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA), which is used as a flame retardant in some polymers and to prepare fire-resistant polycarbonates.
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Phthalates
In recent years, there has been a push for stronger regulations and restrictions on the use of phthalates. In 2008, Congress banned three types of phthalates (DBP, BBP, and DEHP) from toys and childcare products. The FDA has also taken steps to revoke the authorization for the use of certain phthalates in food contact applications. However, it is important to note that product labels often do not disclose the presence of phthalates, making it challenging for consumers to avoid exposure.
To reduce exposure to phthalates, individuals can take proactive steps such as avoiding fast food, as fatty and processed foods tend to have higher levels of phthalates. Additionally, when purchasing products, one can contact the manufacturer or retailer to inquire about the presence of high-concern chemical additives, although this information may not always be readily disclosed.
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PFAS
In the United States, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has taken steps to protect people from PFAS exposure. The EPA has issued orders to companies like Inhance Technologies LLC to stop producing PFAS, specifically in the creation of fluorinated high-density polyethylene (HDPE) plastic containers. The FDA has also announced that PFAS will no longer be used in grease-proof coatings for food packaging. Nationwide limits on certain PFAS in drinking water have also been implemented.
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Flame retardants
The most common flame retardants are halogenated compounds, including brominated and chlorinated types. Halogenated flame retardants are highly effective at relatively low load levels. Brominated flame retardants, such as 2,4,6-tribromophenol, are used as replacements in many products. Gaseous inhibition is a method used by halogenated compounds to prevent combustion by physically or chemically interfering with or eliminating fuel, oxygen, or an ignition source.
Non-halogen, or halogen-free, flame retardants are also increasing in demand. These include intumescents (phosphorus-based) and metallic oxides. Non-halogen flame retardants require a higher load level and often need additional adjustments to maintain the mechanical properties of the plastic. One type of non-halogen flame retardant is solid char-formation, which uses non-halogen compounds and reacts with phosphorus and nitrogen chemistries to form a thick, solid layer of carbon char on the surface of the plastic, insulating and shielding it from the fire. Another type is endothermic cooling, which includes metallic oxides/hydrated minerals, such as aluminum and magnesium hydroxides, and uses an endothermic reaction to remove heat and release water molecules, cooling the plastic and limiting the formation of reactive gases.
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Vinyl
One of the most prevalent toxic chemicals used in vinyl products is vinyl chloride, which is considered a Group 1 carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer. There is no safe level of exposure to vinyl chloride, and it has been linked to liver cancer, lymphoma, leukaemia, and cancers of the brain and lungs. It is also associated with an increased risk of miscarriage and birth defects in pregnant women. Vinyl chloride is released during the use of vinyl products and is present in elevated levels in new cars with vinyl interiors. It can also leach from PVC bottles and food-contact materials.
Phthalates are another group of toxic chemicals commonly found in vinyl products. Phthalates are used as plasticizers to make PVC softer and more flexible. They are not covalently bound to the polymer matrix, making them highly susceptible to leaching. Phthalates are contained in high percentages in many vinyl products, such as intravenous medical bags and tubing. Studies have indicated that the outgassing of phthalates may contribute to health complications, including allergies in children.
Other toxic chemical additives found in vinyl products include lead, cadmium, organotins, benzisothiazolinone, propylene glycol/adipate polyester, ethylhexylmaleate, and bisphenol A. These chemicals have been linked to various health issues, such as skin reactions and allergic contact dermatitis. Additionally, the disposal of PVC waste in landfills and incinerators releases dioxins and furans, which are targeted for international phase-out due to their hazardous nature.
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Frequently asked questions
Some toxic chemicals added to plastic products include bisphenol A (BPA), phthalates, PFAS, flame retardants, vinyl, polystyrene, PET, and antimony. These chemicals are associated with serious health conditions and environmental concerns.
Toxic chemicals in plastic can have severe and long-lasting effects on human health. They can cause neurodevelopmental and neurobehavioral disorders, impact fertility and unborn children, and increase the risk of metabolic disease, obesity, and cancer. Women, men, and children are all vulnerable to the adverse effects of these chemicals.
To avoid exposure, individuals can reduce their use of plastic products, especially those containing hazardous chemicals like BPA and phthalates. The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests avoiding containers with recycling codes "3," "6," and "7," which indicate the presence of phthalates, styrene, and bisphenols, respectively. Additionally, individuals can contact manufacturers or retailers to inquire about specific products and their chemical content.
