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Learn about plastic types, recycling codes, and proper disposal methods. Discover which plastics are recyclable, their environmental impact, and how to reduce plastic waste effectively on our All About Recycling page of Connecting the Dots Project (CTDP). Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards All about plastics All about plastics All about plastics All about plastics Plastics recycling rate less than 9% Scroll to see where the rest ends up. Plastic Symbols Understanding plastic codes helps in proper recycling. Click the numbers below. General Rule of Thumb in Recycling Different Equipment & Capabilities – Not all recycling centers have the same technology to process materials. What one facility can recycle, another might not. Local Regulations – Cities, counties, and states have different rules about what materials can be recycled, how they should be sorted, and where they should be taken. Market Demand – Recycling is influenced by market conditions. Some materials (e.g., certain plastics) may not be accepted if there's no buyer for the recycled material. Contamination Risks – Recycling incorrectly (e.g., throwing in greasy pizza boxes or plastic bags) can contaminate entire batches, making them unrecyclable. Facilities have different standards on what they accept to minimize contamination. Curbside vs. Drop-off Programs – Some items (e.g., batteries, electronics, hazardous waste) may not be accepted in curbside bins but can be dropped off at special locations. Check out more on our recycling page. You need to check recycling guidelines vary by location. Can't Find the Recycling Code? Here's a general guide by product type. Local rules may vary. RESTRICTED Plastic products for Curbside Recycling Bio-based plastics Compostable or bio-based plastics are not typically recyclable. They should be composted or thrown away in the trash. ACCEPTED Plastic products for Curbside Recycling PET Bottles ♳ PET – Polyethylene Terephthalate ✅ Accepted Items: Water and soda bottles Juice bottles Salad dressing & condiment bottles Peanut butter & food jars ❌ Not Accepted: PET clamshell containers (many programs do not accept them) Oily or heavily soiled containers Pigments Pigments Pigments Pigments Learn about plastic pigments Additives Additives Additives Additives About 4,200 out of 16,000 (or 26%) identified as hazardous Polymer Structure Polymer Structure Polymer Structure Polymer Structure Two main categories based on their polymer structure. Labels & Adhesives Labels & Adhesives Labels & Adhesives Labels & Adhesives How Labels and adhesives affect plastic recycling Size & Shape Size & Shape Size & Shape Size & Shape Challenges with recycling of large plastics Factors Affecting Recyclability Microplastics Microplastics (MPs) are tiny plastic particles, less than 5 mm in size, that are widespread pollutants in water, air, and soil. They originate from the breakdown of larger plastic items (secondary MPs) and direct sources like cosmetics and industrial pellets (primary MPs). MPs can absorb harmful environmental pollutants and may leach certain additives like BPA and phthalates under conditions like heat, sunlight, or weathering. Human exposure occurs through ingestion, inhalation, and contact, raising concerns about potential health and environmental impacts.

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards < Back High Risk Population: Children and Adolescents CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS ARE A HIGH RISK Developmental stage: Children and youths are in a critical stage of development and that makes them more vulnerable to the negative impacts of exposure to toxic chemicals and pollutants. (F) MPs can contain Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs), which can interfere with early development (F, G) Early-life exposure to low levels of EDCs can result in developmental defects and long-term neurological consequences in offspring, along with behavioral, memory, learning, and neuro-degenerative issues later in life. Studies suggest EDCs exposure during puberty may predispose individuals to breast cancer later in life (G) Higher intake of food and water per unit of body weight: Because children have higher intake of water and food per unit of body weight, they may have higher intake of MPs. (A,F) Activity behavior: MPs can be found at beaches, parks and gyms, increasing risk of exposure in youth through inhalation or skin contact (A,E) Lack of knowledge and awareness: Children and youths may not be aware of the risks associated with MP exposure, or may not be informed of how to reduce their exposure. Early intervention: MPs can accumulate in the human body, causing various health effects, including growth and reproduction issues, oxidative stress, inflammation, and weakened immunity. (F, G) As youths and children have longer life expectancies than adults, early-life exposure to MPs may lead to long-term and chronic issues. Eating and drinking habit : Youth are more likely to eat food or drink beverages that have been packaged in plastic products, increasing their exposure (A, E, F) CHILDREN AND YOUTH IN MARGINALIZED COMMUNITIES ARE AT HIGHER RISK Marginalized communities are often located near sources of plastic pollution, such as landfills, factories, and toxic waste sites. Food deserts in these communities may contributed to MP exposure,due to plastic packaging of food, single use plastic utensils and water bottles, that are easily accessible at convenience and fast-food stores. Marginalized communities, particularly those in urban areas, may be located in food deserts, which are areas without easy access to fresh, healthy, and affordable food. Children and their families who live in these communities are often reliant on convenience stores and fast -food restaurants, which package foods in plastics or use single use plastic utensils, bottles etc., increasing their exposure to MPs. Higher exposure to MPs in these communities can also be due to occupational disparities, working in factories, food industry, and environmental health. (G) Citations: A . Meeker John D., Sathyanarayaba Sheela and Swan Shanna H. 2009 Phthalates and other additives in plastics: human exposure and associated health outcomes. Phil. Trans. R. Soc. B3642097–2113. https://doi.org/10.1098/rstb.2008.0268 E. Horvatits T, Tamminga M, Liu B, Sebode M, Carambia A, Fischer L, Püschel K, Huber S, Fischer EK. Microplastics detected in cirrhotic liver tissue. EBioMedicine. 2022 Aug;82:104147. doi:10.1016/j.ebiom. 2022.104147. Epub 2022 Jul 11. PMID: 35835713; PMCID: PMC9386716 F. Sripada K, Wierzbicka A, Abass K, Grimalt J. O., Erbe A, Rollin H. B., Weihe P, Diaz G J, Singh R R, Visnes T, Rautio A, Odland O, Wagner M. A Children’s Health Perspective on Nano and Microplastics. Environmental Health Perspectives. 2022 https://doi.org/101/1289/EHP9086 G. Binder AM, Corvalan C, Pereira A, Calafat AM, Ye X, Shepherd J, Michels KB. Prepubertal and Pubertal Endocrine-Disrupting Chemical Exposure and Breast Density among Chilean Adolescents. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev. 2018 Dec;27(12):1491-1499. doi:10.1158/1055-9965.EPI-17-0813. Epub 2018 Aug 29. PMID: 30158279; PMCID: PMC6541222 Previous Next

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards < Back Potential Health Risks Potential Illnesses Posed by Extensive Microplastic Exposure Cardiovascular diseases : Some research has drawn associations between microplastics and poor cardiovascular health. Cancer : Chemicals found in plastics are known to cause various cancers. Metabolic disorders : There are concerns about metabolic issues related to microplastic exposure. Reproductive issues : Studies in animals have shown reduced sperm count and quality, ovarian scarring, and metabolic disorders in offspring. Cognitive decline : Research on mice has shown signs of cognitive decline similar to dementia after exposure to microplastics. Respiratory issues : Microplastics have been found in lung tissue, raising concerns about respiratory health. HARMFUL CHEMICALS IN MPs MPs are composed of various chemicals. A recent study has found over 10,000 different chemicals used in plastics, and of these, over 2,400 of them including Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs),are potentially harmful and toxic. Here are some examples. (B) BPA/ Bisphenol A Studies indicate a possible association between exposure to BPA, increased blood pressure, and a heightened risk for type 2 diabetes, children’s behavioral problem, and cardiovascular disease. (C ,B) Brominated flame retardants Exposure to flame retardants can cause neurological damage, hormone disruption, and cancer. One of the biggest potential dangers of some flame retardants is that they bio-accumulate in humans, causing long -term chronic health problems as bodies contain higher and higher levels of these toxic chemicals. (C,B) Phathalates Human epidemiological studies have demonstrated a correlation between exposure to phthalates and adverse reproductive effects in both males and females. Exposure can cause a range of other health issues as well, including type II diabetes, insulin resistance, obesity, 13 allergies, and asthma. (C,B) Nonylphenols Nonylphenol is an endocrine-disrupting chemical that can interfere with normal hormonal processes, resulting in the early onset of menstruation, reduced sperm count, and impaired reproductive health. (C,B) Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) High exposure may reduce human fertility. Several studies have indicated a correlation between the presence of PFAS in human blood and an increase in both total cholesterol and non-HDL cholesterol levels. (C,D) Citations: C. Diamanti-Kandarakis E, Bourguignon JP, Giudice LC, Hauser R, Prins GS, Soto AM, Zoeller RT, Gore AC. Endocrine-disrupting chemicals: an Endocrine Society scientific statement. Endocr Rev. 2009 Jun;30(4): 293-342. doi: 10.1210/er.2009-0002. PMID: 19502515; PMCID: PMC2726844 D. Rotchell JM, Jenner LC, Chapman E, Bennett RT, Bolanle IO, Loubani M, et al. (2023) Detection of microplastics in human saphenous vein tissue using μ FTIR: A pilot study. PLoS ONE 18(2): e0280594. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal . pone.0280594 E. Horvatits T, Tamminga M, Liu B, Sebode M, Carambia A, Fischer L, Püschel K, Huber S, Fischer EK. Microplastics detected in cirrhotic liver tissue. EBioMedicine. 2022 Aug;82:104147. doi:10.1016/j.ebiom. 2022.104147. Epub 2022 Jul 11. PMID: 35835713; PMCID: PMC9386716 Previous Next

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards < Back Contributors of Microplastics Sources of Microplastics Primary Microplastics (Intentionally Produced) These are manufactured small plastic particles used in products or industrial processes. Microbeads – Found in personal care products like exfoliating scrubs, toothpaste, and facial cleansers. Industrial Abrasives – Used in sandblasting and industrial cleaning processes. Plastic Pellets (Nurdles) – Small raw plastic beads used in plastic manufacturing that often spill into the environment during transport. Secondary Microplastics (Breakdown of Larger Plastics) These result from the fragmentation and degradation of larger plastic items due to environmental exposure. 4. Synthetic Fibers – Released from washing clothes made of polyester, nylon, and acrylic. These fibers enter waterways through wastewater. 5. Plastic Waste Degradation – Plastic bags, bottles, and packaging break down over time due to UV radiation, weathering, and mechanical forces. 6. Car Tire Wear – Tiny plastic particles are shed from tires due to friction with roads and get washed into waterways by rain. 7. Paints and Coatings – Marine, industrial, and household paints release microplastic particles as they degrade. 8. Road Markings – Traffic lines and markings wear down over time, contributing to microplastic pollution. 9. Fishing Gear – Lost or discarded fishing nets and ropes made of plastic degrade and release microplastics into marine environments. 10. Sanitary products and diapers 11. Single-use utensils Citations: A . Meeker John D., Sathyanarayaba Sheela and Swan Shanna H. 2009 Phthalates and other additives in plastics: human exposure and associated health outcomes. Phil. Trans. R. Soc. B3642097–2113. https://doi.org/10.1098/rstb.2008.0268 Previous Next

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards < Back Microplastics Found In Human Bodies Microplastics Found In Human Bodies Citation: D. Rotchell JM, Jenner LC, Chapman E, Bennett RT, Bolanle IO, Loubani M, et al. (2023) Detection of microplastics in human saphenous vein tissue using μ FTIR: A pilot study. PLoS ONE 18(2): e0280594. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal . pone.0280594 E. Horvatits T, Tamminga M, Liu B, Sebode M, Carambia A, Fischer L, Püschel K, Huber S, Fischer EK. Microplastics detected in cirrhotic liver tissue. EBioMedicine. 2022 Aug;82:104147. doi:10.1016/j.ebiom. 2022.104147. Epub 2022 Jul 11. PMID: 35835713; PMCID: PMC9386716 F. Sripada K, Wierzbicka A, Abass K, Grimalt J. O., Erbe A, Rollin H. B., Weihe P, Diaz G J, Singh R R, Visnes T, Rautio A, Odland O, Wagner M. A Children’s Health Perspective on Nano and Microplastics. Environmental Health Perspectives. 2022 https://doi.org/101/1289/EHP9086 G. Binder AM, Corvalan C, Pereira A, Calafat AM, Ye X, Shepherd J, Michels KB. Prepubertal and Pubertal Endocrine-Disrupting Chemical Exposure and Breast Density among Chilean Adolescents. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev. 2018 Dec;27(12):1491-1499. doi:10.1158/1055-9965.EPI-17-0813. Epub 2018 Aug 29. PMID: 30158279; PMCID: PMC6541222 H. https://www.oecd-forum-org/posts/child-brain-develoment-in-pollution-sacrifice-zones-a-call-o-action- accessed 3_28_2023 I. Plasticenta: First evidence of microplastics in human placenta Ragusa A;Svelato A;Santacroce C;Catalano P;Notarstefano V;Carnevali O; Papa F;Rongioletti MCA;Baiocco F;Draghi S;D'Amore E;Rinaldo D;Matta M;Giorgini E J. Durable Plastic Goods: A Source of Microplastics and Chemical Additives in the Built and Natural Environments. Environmental Science & Technology Letters 2022, 9 (10) , 798-807. https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.estlett.2c00417 Hua Zhou, Ye Wang, Yue Ren, Zhenhua Li, Xianggui Kong, Mingfei Shao, Haohong Duan. Previous Next

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards < Back Microplastics and Nano Plastics Microplastics Found In Human Bodies Citation: D. Rotchell JM, Jenner LC, Chapman E, Bennett RT, Bolanle IO, Loubani M, et al. (2023) Detection of microplastics in human saphenous vein tissue using μ FTIR: A pilot study. PLoS ONE 18(2): e0280594. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal . pone.0280594 E. Horvatits T, Tamminga M, Liu B, Sebode M, Carambia A, Fischer L, Püschel K, Huber S, Fischer EK. Microplastics detected in cirrhotic liver tissue. EBioMedicine. 2022 Aug;82:104147. doi:10.1016/j.ebiom. 2022.104147. Epub 2022 Jul 11. PMID: 35835713; PMCID: PMC9386716 F. Sripada K, Wierzbicka A, Abass K, Grimalt J. O., Erbe A, Rollin H. B., Weihe P, Diaz G J, Singh R R, Visnes T, Rautio A, Odland O, Wagner M. A Children’s Health Perspective on Nano and Microplastics. Environmental Health Perspectives. 2022 https://doi.org/101/1289/EHP9086 G. Binder AM, Corvalan C, Pereira A, Calafat AM, Ye X, Shepherd J, Michels KB. Prepubertal and Pubertal Endocrine-Disrupting Chemical Exposure and Breast Density among Chilean Adolescents. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev. 2018 Dec;27(12):1491-1499. doi:10.1158/1055-9965.EPI-17-0813. Epub 2018 Aug 29. PMID: 30158279; PMCID: PMC6541222 H. https://www.oecd-forum-org/posts/child-brain-develoment-in-pollution-sacrifice-zones-a-call-o-action- accessed 3_28_2023 I. Plasticenta: First evidence of microplastics in human placenta Ragusa A;Svelato A;Santacroce C;Catalano P;Notarstefano V;Carnevali O; Papa F;Rongioletti MCA;Baiocco F;Draghi S;D'Amore E;Rinaldo D;Matta M;Giorgini E J. Durable Plastic Goods: A Source of Microplastics and Chemical Additives in the Built and Natural Environments. Environmental Science & Technology Letters 2022, 9 (10) , 798-807. https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.estlett.2c00417 Hua Zhou, Ye Wang, Yue Ren, Zhenhua Li, Xianggui Kong, Mingfei Shao, Haohong Previous Next

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards < Back Microplastics in the Extremes: Tracing Pollution from the Deep Sea to the Skies Microplastics in the Extremes: Tracing Pollution from the Deep Sea to the Skies The widespread distribution of microplastics is evident, as they have been detected in diverse environments, from the depths of the oceans to the highest mountains. Their persistence and mobility pose significant challenges to ecosystems and human health worldwide. Mariana Trench The Mariana Trench, the deepest part of the world's oceans, has not been immune to microplastic contamination. Studies have detected microplastic particles in sediment samples from the trench, highlighting that even the planet's most profound depths are affected by human-induced pollution. Antarctic Snow Pristine regions like Antarctica are also experiencing microplastic infiltration. Research published in The Cryosphere reported the first evidence of microplastics in Antarctic snow, suggesting that these particles are transported through the atmosphere and deposited in remote polar regions. Potential sources include local human activities and long-range atmospheric transport. Atmosphere and Cloud Formation Microplastics have been found in the atmosphere, with studies indicating their potential to influence cloud formation and, consequently, weather and climate patterns. These airborne particles can travel vast distances, affecting regions far from their original source. Point Nemo Point Nemo, known as the oceanic pole of inaccessibility and the farthest point from any landmass, has been studied for microplastic contamination. Despite its remoteness, ocean currents can transport microplastics to this area, demonstrating the far-reaching impact of plastic pollution. Previous Next

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards < Back Pigment Improving Plastic Recycling Rates: The Role of Pigments To improve plastic recycling rates, it is essential to examine the factors influencing the recyclability of different plastics. This article focuses on analyzing the role of pigments in plastics, which play a critical part not only in coloring but also in influencing the overall properties and recyclability of plastics. What Are Pigments? Pigments are insoluble particles, either organic or inorganic, blended with polymers to provide specific colors to plastics. While their primary purpose is to color plastics, pigments also contribute important properties such as heat resistance, UV protection, and durability. Pigments are typically classified into two main categories: Organic Pigments : These are carbon-based compounds known for producing vibrant colors but may be less durable than inorganic pigments in certain conditions. Inorganic Pigments : Made from metallic compounds, such as titanium dioxide or iron oxide, inorganic pigments tend to offer superior stability, better heat resistance, UV protection, and longevity. Performance Properties of Pigments in Plastics Weatherability or Aging :Definition : The ability of pigments and plastics to resist degradation when exposed to environmental factors like sunlight, humidity, temperature changes, and pollutants. Organic vs. Inorganic : Inorganic pigments tend to perform better in terms of weatherability due to their inherent stability, while organic pigments are more prone to fading or degradation, particularly under UV light. Light Fastness :Definition : The ability of the pigment to retain its color when exposed to light, especially UV light. Organic vs. Inorganic : Organic pigments generally have lower light fastness compared to inorganic pigments, meaning they fade more quickly under sunlight. Flexibility, Warping, or Nucleation :Definition : Flexibility refers to a material's ability to bend without cracking, while warping refers to deformation due to heat or stress. Nucleation is the process of particle formation in polymers. Impact of Pigments : While pigments are not primarily responsible for flexibility or warping, they can indirectly affect these properties. For example, pigment particles may influence the polymer's crystallization, affecting flexibility and deformation. However, these properties are more closely related to the polymer matrix and additives. Transparency :Definition : The ability of a pigment to allow light to pass through it, impacting the opacity or translucency of the final product. Organic vs. Inorganic : Organic pigments are often more transparent, while inorganic pigments can be either transparent or opaque depending on the compound used. Comparison of Organic and Inorganic Pigments in the Color Orange Organic Pigments: Composition : Organic pigments contain carbon atoms, derived from natural or synthetic sources. They produce vibrant and intense colors, such as orange. Challenges : Organic pigments may struggle with mixing and dispersion, leading to inconsistencies or clumping in plastics. Cost : Organic pigments tend to be more expensive due to their production complexity and vibrant color. Performance : Organic pigments may not offer the same durability as inorganic pigments, particularly under UV light or weathering conditions. Inorganic Pigments: Composition : Inorganic pigments are derived from minerals, metals, and metal oxides. They are more stable and resistant to environmental degradation. Advantages : Inorganic pigments provide better weatherability, light fastness, and heat resistance. For orange, pigments like iron oxide and cadmium-based pigments are often used due to their durability. Toxicity : Some inorganic pigments, especially those with heavy metals like lead and cadmium, can be toxic. However, many modern inorganic pigments are lead-free, and stricter regulations have led to safer alternatives. Dispersion : Inorganic pigments are easier to disperse in resins and plastics compared to organic pigments, providing stable and consistent color in the final product. Titanium Dioxide : One of the most commonly used inorganic pigments, titanium dioxide is odorless, non-toxic, highly durable, and provides excellent opacity and brightness. It is widely used in applications requiring brightness, opacity, and UV resistance. Other Unique Pigments Carbon Black :Versatility : Carbon black is widely used in thermoplastic and anti-static applications, such as automotive fuel caps, pipes, and in plastics, films, adhesives, and paints. Color Strength : Known for providing deep black tones with excellent color strength and cost-effectiveness. UV Resistance : Carbon black helps protect plastics from UV degradation. Oil Absorption and Particle Size : Its small particle size and high oil absorption properties contribute to its superior durability and color quality. Versatility : Carbon black is versatile and can also be used for color modification or tinting. Aluminum Pigments :Application : Used to introduce metallic effects and enhance the aesthetic qualities of products, particularly in plastics, coatings, and paints. Aluminum pigments provide shiny, reflective properties, adding metallic functionality to polymers. Fluorescent Pigments :Unique Properties : Fluorescent pigments can absorb and re-emit light, creating vibrant glowing effects. These pigments are commonly used in applications requiring high visibility or aesthetic appeal, such as safety signs, paints, and plastic products. Recycling Challenges with Black and Pigmented Plastics Carbon Black and Recycling :Sorting Issues : Carbon black presents challenges in plastic sorting for recycling. The pigment's ability to absorb near-infrared (NIR) light prevents sorting sensors from detecting black plastics, leading to these materials being misclassified and sent to landfills. General Impact on Darker Plastics : The problem extends beyond carbon black. Other darker pigments also cause sorting issues, leading to many dark-colored plastics being discarded or landfilled. Brightly Colored Plastics (e.g., PET) :Contamination Issue : Brightly colored plastics, such as PET (polyethylene terephthalate), can contaminate recycling streams, especially clear or white PET. These vibrant colors complicate the recycling process and reduce the quality of the final recycled material. Sources and References Carbon Black in Recycling : Ellen MacArthur Foundation, The New Plastics Economy: Rethinking the Future of Plastics . U.S. EPA, Plastics and Sustainability: A Valuation of Environmental Benefits, Costs, and Opportunities for Continuous Improvement . Aluminum Pigments :Sun Chemical, Pigments for Plastics and Coatings . Society of Plastics Engineers (SPE), industry reports on aluminum pigments. Fluorescent Pigments :Science Direct, Pigments in Industrial Applications . DayGlo and Fluorescent Pigments International. Recycling of Pigmented Plastics :The Recycling Partnership, The Impact of Black Plastics on Recycling . Association of Plastics Recyclers (APR), Improving Recycling Processes for PET .Understanding the functions of pigments in plastics https://www.differencebetween.com/what-is-the-difference-between-organic-pigments-and-inorganic-pigments/ https://www.britannica.com/science/titanium-dioxide https://polymer-additives.specialchem.com/selection-guide/pigments-for-plastics Previous Next

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards < Back Toxic Plastic Ingredients and Potential Health Risks Toxic Plastic Ingredients and Potential Health Risks Plastics are integral to modern life, yet their composition often includes toxic chemicals that pose significant health risks. Understanding these hazardous ingredients is crucial for informed choices and advocating for safer alternatives. 1. Bisphenol A (BPA) BPA is a chemical used in producing polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins, commonly found in food containers and water bottles. It is an endocrine disruptor, mimicking estrogen and potentially leading to reproductive issues, developmental problems, and metabolic disorders. Studies have linked BPA exposure to adverse effects on human health, including hormonal imbalances and increased risk of certain cancers. 2. Phthalates Phthalates are plasticizers added to plastics like polyvinyl chloride (PVC) to increase flexibility. They are present in products such as toys, food packaging, and medical devices. Phthalates are known endocrine disruptors and have been associated with reproductive abnormalities, reduced sperm quality, and developmental issues in children. Research indicates that exposure to phthalates can lead to hormonal disruptions and reproductive health problems. 3. Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs) PBDEs are flame retardants used in various plastic products, including electronics and furniture. They can leach into the environment and accumulate in human tissues. PBDE exposure has been linked to neurodevelopmental deficits, thyroid hormone disruption, and potential carcinogenic effects. Studies have shown that PBDEs can interfere with thyroid hormone regulation and may impact brain development. 4. Heavy Metals Plastics can contain heavy metals like lead, cadmium, and mercury, used as stabilizers or colorants. These metals are toxic and can cause neurological damage, kidney disease, and developmental problems in children. Exposure to heavy metals from plastic products has been associated with various health issues, including cognitive impairments and organ damage. 5. Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) PFAS, known as "forever chemicals," are used in producing non-stick, water-repellent, and stain-resistant coatings. They persist in the environment and human body, leading to potential health risks such as immune system suppression, thyroid disease, and increased cholesterol levels. Research has linked PFAS exposure to various adverse health outcomes, including immune system effects and metabolic disturbances. Health Implications Exposure to these toxic ingredients can occur through ingestion, inhalation, or dermal contact. The health effects are wide-ranging: Endocrine Disruption: Chemicals like BPA and phthalates interfere with hormone function, potentially leading to reproductive health issues and developmental abnormalities.pnas.org Neurotoxicity: Substances such as PBDEs and heavy metals can impair cognitive function and neurodevelopment, especially in children.pnas.org Carcinogenicity: Some plastic additives have been identified as potential carcinogens, increasing the risk of cancers.pnas.org Immune System Effects: PFAS exposure has been associated with immune system suppression, affecting the body's ability to combat diseases.pnas.org Mitigation Strategies To reduce exposure to these toxic substances: Use Alternatives: Opt for glass, stainless steel, or silicone products instead of plastic. Avoid Heating Plastics: Heating can cause leaching of chemicals; avoid microwaving food in plastic containers. Check Labels: Look for products labeled as free from BPA, phthalates, and other harmful chemicals. Advocate for Change: Support policies aimed at reducing the use of hazardous chemicals in plastics. **Awareness and proactive measures are essential to minimize the health risks associated with toxic ingredients in plastics.** Sources: https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2412714121?utm_source=chatgpt.com https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/envhealth.3c00053 https://www.genevaenvironmentnetwork.org/resources/updates/plastics-and-health/ Previous Next

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards < Back Polymer Structure Plastics can be classified into two main categories based on their polymer structure: thermoplastics and thermosetting plastics. Thermoplastics Recyclability: High. Thermoplastics can be melted and remolded multiple times without undergoing significant chemical changes. This makes them generally easier to recycle. Examples include PET, HDPE, PVC, LDPE, PP, and PS. Examples: PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) Commonly used in beverage bottles and food containers. HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) Found in milk jugs, detergent bottles, and piping. PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) Used in plumbing pipes, electrical cable insulation, and medical devices. LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene) Used in plastic bags, squeeze bottles, and film wrap. PP (Polypropylene) Found in packaging, textiles, and automotive parts. PS (Polystyrene) Used in foam products like Styrofoam, disposable cutlery, and CD cases. Thermosetting Plastics Recyclability : Low . Thermosetting plastics undergo a chemical change when heated, making them rigid and unable to be remelted and reshaped. This makes recycling these plastics more challenging. Common examples include epoxy resins, phenolic plastics, polyurethane, and melamine formaldehyde. Examples: Epoxy Resins Used in adhesives, coatings, and composite materials. Phenolic Plastics Found in electrical components and heat-resistant objects. Polyurethane Used in foam products, coatings, and adhesives. Melamine Formaldehyde Used in kitchenware, laminates, and adhesives. References: Polymer Structure: Andrady, A. L., & Neal, M. A. (2009). "Applications and societal benefits of plastics." Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences, 364(1526), 1977-1984. Link Hopewell, J., et al. (2009). "Plastics recycling: challenges and opportunities." Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences, 364(1526), 2115-2126. Link Polymer structure drawing: Recycling of Plastics: Geyer, R., Jambeck, J. R., & Law, K. L. (2017). "Production, use, and fate of all plastics ever made." Science Advances, 3(7), e1700782. Link Ragaert, K., et al. (2017). "Recycling of multilayer plastic packaging materials: A review." Waste Management, 69, 24-58. Link Previous Next

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards < Back Prevention of exposure HOW TO AVOID MICROPLASTIC EXPOSURE EDUCATE CHILDREN ABOUT MICROPLASTICS AND RECYCLING By teaching children about the impact of plastic waste on the environment and the importance of recycling, we can instill a sense of responsibility and environmental stewardship in the next generation. WASH HANDS AFTER PLAYING & RETURNING HOME Surface-level MP often stick to the skin when touching plastic toys, crawling on synthetic carpet, playing outside, or making crafts with synthetic material. As a result, Children may inadvertently ingest MPs by touching their faces or putting their hands in their mouths after playing with plastic items. By washing their hands, youcan significantly reduce exposure. USE GLASS BOTTLES INSTEAD OF PLASTICS Similarly, using glass bottles instead of plastic bottles can help to reduce the risk of leaching and plastic fragmentation. Moreover, by reusing glass bottles, you minimize the amount of plastic pollution in the environment. HOW TO AVOID MICROPLASTIC EXPOSURE EAT FRESH UNPROCESSED FOOD Eating unprocessed foods can be a simple and effective way to reduce the risk of MP exposure and promote overall health. By choosing whole, natural foods that are minimally processed and packaged, individuals can reduce the number of MPs REDUCE THE AMOUNT OF MPs PRODUCED FROM YOUR LAUNDRY Washing synthetic textile always produces MPs. Wash with cold water with lesser detergent can reduce the amount of shedding. Installing a laundry filter can significantly reduce the amount of MPs released into air or water. AVOID HYGIENE AND COSMETIC PRODUCTS WITH MICRO Choose Personal Care products: avoid personal care products that contain MPs, such as exfoliating scrubs and toothpaste. instead choose products made with natural ingredients. in their diet and support a cleaner and healthier environment. In addition, don't forget to wash your fruits and vegetables. DRINK FILTERED WATER Install a water filtration system or use a picture with a filter that helps reducing MPs. AVOID EXPOSING PLASTICS TO HEAT OR SUNLIGHT Thermal degeneration occurs when plastics get heated, such as being microwaved or left in a hot car. By avoiding heating plastics up, we prevent the leaching of plastics into food, water, etc., and reduce the fragmentation of plastics into smaller particles, including MPs. A simple example is choosing loose tea instead of tea bags. WET-WIPE, DUST, AND VACUUM WITH A HEPA FILTER REGULARLY Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter vacuuming with a helper filter can help reduce the amount ofMPs and other particles in your indoor air wet wiping surfaces of your furniture removesMPs more efficiently thandry wiping. Previous Next

Home Our Mission Recycling Plastics Air Water Land Lifestyles Economy & Politics Media & Awards < Back Mechanism of Microplastics Previous Next