From food packaging to electronics, plastic is everywhere. However, the chemicals used in the production of plastics can have negative impacts on human health, as highlighted in an article from the Ecology Center.
Many plastics contain phthalates (DEHP) and the chemical BPA. If food or drink is stored in these plastics, they can be contaminated with these chemicals. If food is heated inside these containers in the microwave or if the plastic is ingested as in the case of a small child, these chemicals make their way into our food and into our bodies. Both chemicals are potentially harmful to human hormones, reproductive systems, and early childhood development. After decades of producing trillions of oil-based plastic items, the negative consequences are startling. Plastic pollution is now recognized as a hazard to public health and the human body. Microplastics are now known to cause damage to human cells at the levels known to be consumed by people via their food, according to a study by the Journal of Hazardous Materials. Correlations have been shown between levels of some of these petrochemicals, and an increased risk of problems such as chromosomal and reproductive system abnormalities, impaired brain and neurological functions, cancer, cardiovascular system damage, adult-onset diabetes, early puberty, obesity and resistance to chemotherapy.
So, what can we do to reduce our exposure to these harmful chemicals and protect our health? We can reduce our exposure to plastics by using reusable shopping bags, glass food containers, using plastic-free personal care products like solid shampoo and conditioner bars, avoiding products with excessive plastic packaging, and supporting companies that use safer and more sustainable materials in their products.
By using sustainable alternatives, we can protect our health and the health of our planet for future generations.
