A comprehensive review of hundreds of studies has revealed that chemicals commonly used in plastics pose significant threats to children, increasing the risk of disability and disease that can persist into adulthood. The review, published in The Lancet Child & Adolescent Health, focused on three types of chemical additives: phthalates, bisphenols, and perfluoroalkyl substances, which are used to make plastics more flexible, rigid, or resistant to heat and water.
Children are particularly vulnerable to these chemicals, which can be ingested from a variety of plastic products, including toys and food packaging. The review found that early exposure to these chemicals can elevate the risk of heart disease, obesity, infertility, and asthma later in life. Additionally, these plastic additives are suspected to impact brain development, with studies linking them to lower IQ, ADHD, and autism.
The findings underscore the urgent need for action, both at the individual and policy levels. Leonardo Trasande, the lead author of the review and a professor of pediatrics at New York University, suggests practical steps that parents can take to reduce their children’s exposure to these harmful chemicals. These include replacing plastic containers with glass or steel, and avoiding microwaving plastic or cleaning it in the dishwasher, as heat can cause the chemicals to leach out.
For the agriculture sector, the implications are significant. Plastic is ubiquitous in farming, from irrigation systems to packaging for produce. The use of plastic mulch, for instance, is widespread, and while it can increase yields, it also contributes to the overall plastic pollution problem. Farmers may need to explore alternative materials and practices to reduce their reliance on plastic.
Investors, too, should take note. The growing body of evidence linking plastic chemicals to serious health issues could lead to increased regulation and potential liabilities for companies in the plastic industry. Moreover, the failure of countries to agree on a treaty to limit plastic production, as reported recently, suggests that the onus may fall on individual companies and investors to drive change.
The economic toll of plastic-related health issues is substantial. Trasande estimates that Americans alone are paying around $250 billion annually to treat ailments linked to plastic. This figure highlights the potential cost savings and health benefits of reducing plastic use.
In conclusion, the review serves as a stark reminder of the hidden costs of our plastic-dependent society. It calls for a concerted effort from individuals, industries, and policymakers to mitigate the impacts of plastic on human health and the environment. For the agriculture sector and investors, this means re-evaluating current practices and investments, and exploring sustainable alternatives.