Presence of microplastics in human stomachs
This study presents the first definitive confirmation of microplastic presence in the human stomach, based on samples from 26 cadavers. 97 microplastic particles were extracted from stomach contents, across all 26 individuals, revealing a universal prevalence of microplastics in the cadavers.
Association of mixed exposure to microplastics with sperm dysfunction: a multi-site study in China
Our findings highlight the potential reproductive health risks posed by microplastic contamination, particularly PTFE, a non-stick pan coating material, and raise concerns about the potential of urine testing as an indicator of male reproductive microplastic exposure. Future research is warranted to further elucidate the mechanisms underlying the adverse effects of microplastics on male fertility and cross-generational effects.
Microplastics in the Olfactory Bulb of the Human Brain
This case series provides evidence of MPs found in the human olfactory bulb, suggesting a potential pathway for the translocation of MPs to the brain. The findings underscore the need for further research on the health implications of MP exposure, particularly concerning neurotoxicity and the potential for MPs to bypass the blood-brain barrier.
Discovery and analysis of microplastics in human bone marrow
Pyrolysis-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (Py-GC/MS) is an emerging thermal analysis technique that reliable qualified and quantified data for MPs risk assessment of human health [15], [26]. Laser direct infrared spectroscopy (LD-IR) has been widely used to characterize of MPs, including their type, size, and morphology [12]. This study utilized Py-GC/MS, LD-IR, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to analyze and identify the accumulation of MPs in the bone marrow. The results provide crucial data for evaluating the risks of MPs on human haematopoietic injury, and support further studies with larger sample sizes and more detailed designs to explore the health implications of MPs in human bone marrow.
Chemical Recycling: A False Promise for the Ohio River Valley
Ohio River Valley Institute’s July 2024 report explores the many reasons why chemical recycling is a false promise for the region, from hazardous chemicals, to greenhouse gas emissions, the habitat and ecosystem degradation, to the technology’s expense and general lack of success, and more.
Microplastic presence in dog and human testis and its potential association with sperm count and weights of testis and epididymis
Our study revealed the presence of microplastics in all canine and human testes, with significant inter-individual variability. Mean total microplastic levels were 122.63 µg/g in dogs and 328.44 µg/g in humans. Both humans and canines exhibit relatively similar proportions of the major polymer types, with PE being dominant. Furthermore, a negative correlation between specific polymers such as PVC and PET and the normalized weight of the testis was observed. These findings highlight the pervasive presence of microplastics in the male reproductive system in both canine and human testes, with potential consequences on male fertility.
Bioaccumulation of Microplastics in Decedent Human Brains Assessed by Pyrolysis Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry
Rising global concentrations of environmental micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) drive concerns for human exposure and health outcomes. Applying pyrolysis gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (Py-GC/MS) methods to isolate and quantify MNPs from human samples, we compared MNP accumulation in kidneys, livers, and brains.
State of the Science On Plastic Chemicals
Although there is a wealth of scientific information on plastic chemicals and polymers to inform policymakers, implementing this evidence is challenging because information is scattered and not easily accessible. The PlastChem report and database address this issue by comprehensively and consistently synthesizing the state of the science on plastic chemicals, including their hazard properties, and their presence in polymers. The state-of-the-science report provides the publicly available evidence to inform policy development that protects public health and the environment.
Microplastics and Nanoplastics in Atheromas and Cardiovascular Events
Plastic waste is a growing problem, and as plastics break down the pieces can be problematic. A new study in Science Advances suggests that tiny plastic particles may be the latest environmental contributor to Parkinson’s disease (PD)
Plastic Waste Contaminants Could Promote Parkinson’s
Plastic waste is a growing problem, and as plastics break down the pieces can be problematic. A new study in Science Advances suggests that tiny plastic particles may be the latest environmental contributor to Parkinson’s disease (PD)
Identification and analysis of microplastics in human lower limb joints
Our findings demonstrate the presence of MPs in human joints and suggest that further studies are needed to explore the intricate associations between MPs and anatomical location, clinical diagnosis, and local cellular responses.
PureCycle’s (PCT) Failure To Launch
After a months long investigation, backed by interviews, regulatory filings, and visual evidence reveals that the facility has yet to start commercial scale production four months later. We have spoken with Ohio regulators that have contradicted company claims, and former employees that have exposed numerous issues. We believe PureCycle has mislead investors about the launch of its facility, or at the very least, will not come anywhere close to meeting production targets.
Hazardous Chemicals in Recycled and Reusable Plastic Food Packaging
All types of water pipes, not only lead, can release chemicals into drinking water. Plastic pipes, which are constructed from potentially dozens of different chemicals, release more contaminants into drinking water than unlined metal pipes, which are built of few materials. Communities need to understand the potential health risks associated with different water pipe materials so that they do not end up with what’s known as a “regrettable substitution,” or a situation in which a selected alternative turns out to be just as bad, if not worse, as the original option.
The Perils of PVC Plastic Pipes
All types of water pipes, not only lead, can release chemicals into drinking water. Plastic pipes, which are constructed from potentially dozens of different chemicals, release more contaminants into drinking water than unlined metal pipes, which are built of few materials. Communities need to understand the potential health risks associated with different water pipe materials so that they do not end up with what’s known as a “regrettable substitution,” or a situation in which a selected alternative turns out to be just as bad, if not worse, as the original option.
PVC Poison Plastic
Every day, PVC production exposes communities around the country to vinyl chloride and other PVC chemicals, a result of the inadequate U.S. regulatory system that allows the use of the most hazardous chemicals and plastics. This investigation uncovers the largest polluters of vinyl chloride in the U.S. and maps the communities regularly exposed to this dangerous chemical and its waste products.
The Minderoo-Monaco Commission on Plastics and Human Health
The Minderoo-Monaco Commission on Plastics and Human Health has produced an extensive analysis of the plastics’ negative impacts on: i) human health and well-being focusing on vulnerable populations, ii) on the global environment focusing on ocean health, and iii) the economy. The report includes highly valuable sustainable solutions that can be implemented by governments and industries to minimize the negative consequences of global plastic contamination This is an urgent problem that must be addressed in the worldwide agenda in parallel to climate change, as they are closely interconnected.
Detection of Microplastics in Human Saphenous Vein Tissue Using μFtir: A Pilot Study
Microplastics (MPs) are ubiquitous in the environment, in the human food chain, and have been recently detected in blood and lung tissues. To undertake a pilot analysis of MP contamination in human vein tissue samples with respect to their presence (if any), levels, and characteristics of any particles identified. This study analysed digested human saphenous vein tissue samples (n = 5) using μFTIR spectroscopy (size limitation of 5 μm) to detect and characterise any MPs present.
Microplastics Occurrence, Health Effects, and Mitigation Policies: An Evidence Review for the California State Legislature
This report responds to a joint request from the California Senate Committee on Environmental Quality and the Assembly Committee on Natural Resources for evidence concerning human health effects of microplastics and public policies related to microplastics prevention and mitigation.
Research was conducted by the California State Policy Evidence Consortium (CalSPEC), anindependent program administered through the University of California Center Sacramento (UCCS) and composed of faculty, staff, and graduate student researchers across UC campuses who evaluate evidence to inform public policy deliberations.
The Cost of Amazon’s Plastic Denial on the World’s Oceans
For the third year, Oceana analyzed e-commerce packaging data and found that Amazon generated 709 million pounds of plastic packaging waste in 2021. This is a 18% increase of Oceana’s 2020 estimate of 599 million pounds and is enough plastic to circle the Earth more than 800 times in the form of air pillows. Oceana found, based on data from a peer-reviewed study on plastic waste pollution published in Science in 2020, that up to 26 million pounds of this plastic waste will end up in the world’s waterways and seas.
Loopholes, Injustice, & the “Advanced Recycling” Myth
The report exposes misinformation spread by the fossil fuel industry about advanced recycling, chemical recycling, and other toxic and climate-damaging technologies that melt, boil, and burn plastic waste. Just Zero’s report focuses on the American Chemistry Council’s extensive lobbying efforts to create state law loopholes that help these facilities evade public oversight and environmental protections, and provide financial support for advanced recycling.