top of page

Posts List

For a long time, the fossil fuel industry has been pushing the narrative that it is the fault of consumers that there is so much plastic pollution.  They have said that the public is not recycling enough.  They blame developing countries for the pollution that ends up in the sea.  With the fall in revenue from fossil energy, the industry ramped up plastic production to mitigate its losses and focused on single use products to maximise turnover.  They turned a blind eye to what happens after use and externalised the costs of cleaning up the mess they caused.  The result has been an exponential rise in global plastic pollution, including  11 million tonnes of plastic entering the ocean every year.  The only way for this to change is for the production and use of plastics to be reduced. This means that the industry, Big Plastic, must be prepared to at last pay their share, taking a hit on its profits.  There may be a few who are prepared to accept this because they see the damage that is being done, but a large proportion resist all attempts to limit production and hide their agenda behind a façade of sustainable ambition.  Like the Traitors in the television series, they lie to those around them while pretending to be Faithful to a circular economy. In a survey of brands littering coastlines worldwide the following were the top five  polluters: The Coca-Cola Company, Nestlé, Unilever, PepsiCo and Mondelēz International. Time will tell whether governments will see through the artifice and banish single use plastic.  Meanwhile Coca-Cola is up next in our series ‘Corporates Making Profit from Pollution’.  Follow our newsletter and blogs to discover more Traitors.  +++++++++++++++++ For more information contact: info@scarabtrust.org.uk Image man and girl with globe covered eyes - Image by ArtHouse Studio (ST ref: 1323) World without Waste: Facebook chart: The World in Data

Corporate greenwash. Who are the Traitors? Who are the Faithful?

For a long time, the fossil fuel industry has been pushing the narrative that it is the fault of consumers that there is so much plastic pollution.  They have said that the public is not recycling enough.  They blame developing countries for the pollution that ends up in the sea.  With the fall in revenue from fossil energy, the industry ramped up plastic production to mitigate its losses and focused on single use products to maximise turnover.  They turned a blind eye to what happens after...

Read More

Corporate

Plastic pollutes our land and our oceans, disturbing wildlife and ecosystems. Microplastics have been found throughout the human body and have unknown health effects. Almost all plastics are produced from chemicals sourced from fossil fuels, with production contributing to climate change. Worryingly, plastic production is growing exponentially , approximately doubling every decade. Much of this is single-use plastic.  Corporate Responsibility Profit-driven corporations are largely responsible for excessive plastic production and consumption. Plastic is cheap, convenient and disposable. Fossil fuel giants, packaging companies and consumer goods corporations all make profit through plastic. As the public becomes concerned with plastic pollution, consumer-goods corporations have successfully greenwashed  their products; rather than making any meaningful change that might affect business, companies attempt to make their plastic products appear less harmful to the environment. Recycling and the Consumer Instead of taking responsibility, corporations have put the blame on consumers. They have focused on public littering campaigns and championed recycling as the solution to the plastic problem. Many corporations make misleading claims about the recyclability of their products and offer voluntary pledges for ‘sustainable’ change – many of which have been quietly abandoned. Distraction and Lobbying Corporations have continued to use more and more single-use plastic whilst promoting various false solutions . This gives them environmental credibility, maintaining profits, without any accountability. Consumers are distracted from the real problem of excessive plastic production  and meaningful action and legislation is delayed. In fact, corporations often actively undermine real solutions, offering pledges for change whilst lobbying against legislation to restrict the use of plastic.  The Big Polluters Over half of global branded plastic pollution can be tracked to just   56 companies . Despite many environmental claims and pledges,   The Coca-Cola Company  is consistently found to be the   top global polluter.  Coca-Cola uses a range of marketing tactics to obscure the harm that their products are causing. Although this greenwashing is by no means exceptional, it provides a case study of how corporations operate when the bottom line is profit. +++++++++++++++++ Read more about The Coca-Cola Company’s greenwashing tactics in episode 2 of this seven part series... For more information contact: info@scarabtrust.org.uk Image ' Plastica '

Coca-Cola: Plastic and Profit

Plastic pollutes our land and our oceans, disturbing wildlife and ecosystems. Microplastics have been found throughout the human body and have unknown health effects. Almost all plastics are produced from chemicals sourced from fossil fuels, with production contributing to climate change. Worryingly, plastic production is growing exponentially , approximately doubling every decade. Much of this is single-use plastic.  Corporate Responsibility Profit-driven corporations are largely responsible...

Read More

Corporate

From bread bags to bubble wrap, crisp packets to cling film, we are still heavily reliant on soft plastic packaging despite the damage it does to the planet after use.  Recycling has been shown to be largely ineffective . We need to reduce our reliance on soft plastics in the first place and encourage reusable packaging. The Role of Supermarkets Despite promising to phase out  soft plastics, UK supermarkets have been failing to meet their own targets on reducing soft plastic usage. To date plastic packaging has only been reduced by 7% since 2018. Supermarkets do not have the profit incentive to phase out soft plastic packaging and there is not enough consumer pressure pushing them to change. This is why it is so important that the government introduce wide-ranging legislation to ban soft plastic packaging. Lessons from Overseas In 2022, France introduced  a ban on single-use plastic packaging for 30 types of unprocessed fruits and vegetables, estimated to eliminate over a billion  unnecessary plastic packages every year.  Spain introduced a similar ban  on plastic wrapping for fruits and vegetables in 2023.  The UK government has introduced bans on various types of single-use plastics, some of which include soft plastics. However, this does not include  most examples of soft plastics, such as fruit and vegetable packaging. Currently only 19% of fruits and vegetables are sold without plastic in UK supermarkets. What the UK government should be doing about soft plastics In a recent report  conducted jointly by Everyday Plastic and the Environmental Investigation Agency , a range of suggestions were made for the UK government, in advance of any global treaty on plastics, including: Set legally binding targets to reduce single-use plastic packaging by weight and by unit. Set legally binding targets on reuse and refill packaging use. Ban plastic packaging on unprocessed fruit and vegetables by 2030. Ban all exports of UK plastic waste by 2027. Introduce an immediate moratorium on new incineration and energy-from-waste capacity across the UK.  Prevent the uptake of chemical recycling as a treatment option for plastic, including packaging. +++++++++++++++++ For more information contact: info@scarabtrust.org.uk Images apples clear plastic bag - Image by Sophia Marston on Unsplash (ST ref: 1171)

The Crisis of Soft Plastic Packaging: Our Role in a Global Problem

From bread bags to bubble wrap, crisp packets to cling film, we are still heavily reliant on soft plastic packaging despite the damage it does to the planet after use.  Recycling has been shown to be largely ineffective . We need to reduce our reliance on soft plastics in the first place and encourage reusable packaging. The Role of Supermarkets Despite promising to phase out  soft plastics, UK supermarkets have been failing to meet their own targets on reducing soft plastic usage. To date...

Read More

Waste

Since the start of the industrial revolution in the mid-1700s, fossil fuels have played a pivotal role in the expansion of our economies. The Western world has developed off the back of carbon intensive non-renewable resources, yet the consequences of these actions are becoming increasingly evident, and it is the poor who are set to pay the disproportionate price. Our warming climate is unequivocally linked to our preceding and continued use of fossil fuels, and the evidence that links our carbon intensive past to climate change, is scientifically, virtually irrefutable. Despite the seemingly positive outlook that the European Union’s (EU) fossil fuel reliance is at an all-time low, there is no denying the EU’s continued requirement for non-renewables, and the need for them to be sourced outside of pre-existing partnerships. Nearly four years on from Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, loopholes in the somewhat failed sanctions’ regime have allowed Europe to maintain its fossil fuel ties with Moscow. But with a continent-wide pledge to terminate all deals with the Russian energy sector by 2027, the alternative for resource extraction, is likely to become Africa. European companies have already made a dash for African reserves, which, as described by the International Institute of Sustainable Development, will undermine African state interests for the sake of European company profits. It appears – at least at present – that Africa’s energy future will rest in the hands of the Western world. Africa could now be poised to play a critical role in fuelling the oil and gas requirements of Europe, but while the latter triumphs in its success of finding a solution to its own energy problem, has the world given any consideration to the impacts that will face Africa? At risk, is Africa’s own energy requirements, and its potential for a green economy. By investing in its fossil fuels, it is forced towards an unsustainable non-renewable future that threatens its people, its peace, and its continental stability. +++++++++++++++++ For more information contact: info@scarabtrust.org.uk Images industry sunrise fog germany - Image by Foto-Rabe on Pixabay (ST ref: 1112)

Carbon colonialism at Africa's expense.

Since the start of the industrial revolution in the mid-1700s, fossil fuels have played a pivotal role in the expansion of our economies. The Western world has developed off the back of carbon intensive non-renewable resources, yet the consequences of these actions are becoming increasingly evident, and it is the poor who are set to pay the disproportionate price. Our warming climate is unequivocally linked to our preceding and continued use of fossil fuels, and the evidence that links our...

Read More

Climate

Did you know about this essential resource: The Global Plastic Laws  ? The Global Plastic Laws is a comprehensive database containing accurate data on legislation passed relating to plastic in different parts of the world. This database is global, publicly available and free to use. It is a resource library designed for everyone who needs accurate, up-to-date and detailed information on legislation relating to plastic. It will be important for individuals working in policy-making, business or education or any field where they need access to details of plastics legislation, which is complex and difficult to locate any other way. What Laws Have Been Passed The content relates to the vital topics of the oceans, fish and wildlife, the environment, and cancer and health. What laws have other countries passed? How does their legislation work? The answers are in The Global Plastic Laws database.  Nine Topic Areas The database is divided into nine topic areas: Design and Re-use, Extended Producer Responsibility, Maritime Sources, Microplastics, Production and Manufacturing, Reduction, Transparency and Traceability, Waste Management and Waste Trade. It shows exactly how legislation relating to plastic is progressing in each country.  Searchable It is fully searchable by date, country, topic, keyword and product type, and it  provides as much detail as you need, right down to the full text of the legislation. And, as policies progress, the editors of the database will add new, relevant legislation and keep the content up to date.  The global plastic laws are shown in the local language for each country.   A 'Go-To' Global Resource The database is designed and managed by subject matter experts from: plasticpollutioncoalition.org with partners Environmental Law Alliance Worldwide, Surfrider Foundation and Break Free From Plastic. This makes it the go-to global resource for anyone who needs facts about the progress of legislation relating to the life-cycle of plastics and plastic pollution +++++++++++++++++ Please share this post with your colleagues and contacts who may find The Global Plastic Laws a useful resource. For more information contact: info@scarabtrust.org.uk .

Global Plastics Laws database

Did you know about this essential resource: The Global Plastic Laws  ? The Global Plastic Laws is a comprehensive database containing accurate data on legislation passed relating to plastic in different parts of the world. This database is global, publicly available and free to use. It is a resource library designed for everyone who needs accurate, up-to-date and detailed information on legislation relating to plastic. It will be important for individuals working in policy-making, business or...

Read More

Legislation

Ben Addelman and Ziya Tong’s Plastic People is an exposé of the disastrous consequences of plastic pollution . The development of plastic allowed an unprecedented level of material abundance, health and cleanliness alongside 'unlimited capitalist consumption' (Susan Freinkel*). Plastic, created from “molecules never before seen under the sun,” now pollutes the sea, causing the Great Garbage Patch , filling bird carcasses and infiltrating our bloodstream .   With over   1.5 billion plastic bottles bought around the planet daily and 2 million plastic bags used every minute, (Rick Smith) plastic pollution has reached a scale never seen before. 400 million tonnes of plastics are created each year, almost half of which goes into single-use items. As oil demand reduces over the next few decades, petroleum companies are looking to   triple plastic use and production, inevitably increasing pollution. Plastic production contributes to global warming and creates toxic exposure problems. Crucially, “virtually every molecule of plastic ever created still exists on earth… in some stage of degradation” (Smith). Plastic, once created, doesn’t go away. Plastic particles have been found  in the clouds , in snow and rain. Particles can shed from cereal bags into your breakfast bowl, from carpet and other surfaces into dust and air, and contaminate many consumer products.  In its infancy, plastic was broadcast through effective communication tools as a necessity to save time and money. We were led to think that recycling worked and was carried out effectively, despite evidence to the contrary .  Fuelled by corporate , profit -driven greed, the plastic industry and chemical plants  have no concern for environmental concerns. Plastic pollution has reached a point of no return, and we must act now . Subscribe to our newsletter   to read our next blog: Microplastics… +++++++++++++++++ For more information contact: info@scarabtrust.org.uk *Featured in Plastic People : Susan Freinkel, author: Plastic: a Toxic Love Story Rick Smith PhD, co-author: Slow Death by Rubber Duck All images © Plastic People Documentary Productions Inc.

Plastic People: 2. Plastics and Pollution

Ben Addelman and Ziya Tong’s Plastic People is an exposé of the disastrous consequences of plastic pollution . The development of plastic...

Read More

Health

Sustainable’ is a widely known environmental term. However, it is often used loosely and without clear definition. Companies engaging in greenwashing tactics  may misleadingly refer to their plastic products as ‘sustainable’. It is important then to understand what sustainability really means, why it is so important and if a sustainable plastics system is possible. The World Commission on Environmental Development (WCED) introduced the idea of ‘sustainable development’  in the 1987 report ‘Our Common Future’. It is defined as ‘[meeting] the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs’ . For the first time, this highlighted the importance of aligning human development needs with the long-term needs of the planet. In general, sustainability is about being able to continuously maintain a process over time . To be environmentally sustainable, this means only using resources now that you can continue using indefinitely, and without causing irreversible harm to the environment. In this way, future generations can still meet their own needs. The WCED report argued that when thinking of the environment, social and economic sustainability are important too. There should be a balance between environmental protection, economic growth (is it affordable?) and social needs (are communities, jobs and human health protected?).   Sustainability is so important, because it prioritises both  environmental and human wellbeing in the  long-term. There are sustainability problems across the life cycle of plastics; from production, distribution, consumption and disposal. Almost all plastics are made from non-renewable fossil fuels and are therefore inherently unsustainable. Throughout their life cycle plastics cause accumulating harm to climate, human health and ecosystems. This impact is greater than the environment’s ability to restore itself and so is unsustainable. A more sustainable plastics system should involve harm-reducing changes across the entire plastics life cycle. +++++++++++++++++ For more information contact: info@scarabtrust.org.uk

Sustainable Plastic: 2. What is Sustainability?

Sustainable’ is a widely known environmental term. However, it is often used loosely and without clear definition. Companies engaging in...

Read More

Pollution

Ben Addelman’s Plastic People  is a must-watch documentary offering a chilling exploration of our journey from homo-sapiens to “ homo-plasticus ”, as Dr Sedat Gündoğdu* warns in the film. It exposes the hidden truth about plastic pollution and how it has infiltrated not only the world around us but our bodies too. Co-directed by science journalist Ziya Tong, this compelling film takes us on a journey to discover how   plastic has become tightly knitted into “every aspect and pore of modern life” (Susan Freinkel). Through detailed research, expert analysis and striking visuals, the reality of our plastic lives is laid bare. The water we drink, the air we breathe and the food we eat contain microplastics. These tiny particles enter our blood, our brains and cells, potentially causing inflammatory responses, infertility, cancer and chronic diseases. The roots of plastic production lie in the oil industry, where leftovers from petroleum production were peddled as consumer goods. By the mid-20th century, widespread disposable plastic usage saw plastic become a pillar of everyday life. As Tong poignantly remarks, the presence of synthetic plastics in our lives transcends the limitations of natural resources: we are no longer made of just “stardust,” but “microplastic dust” too. The advent of “waste colonialism” has seen wealthy countries export plastic waste to Turkey, Malaysia, the Philippines and other countries. Meanwhile, misleading recycling campaigns continue to deceive consumers –  less than 10% of plastic gets recycled worldwide . Fortunately, there is hope. The film highlights inspiring global efforts to curb plastic use, from Rwanda’s ban on plastic bags to Bayfield, Canada’s status as a plastic-free community. However, in pursuit of profits, the oil industry is planning on tripling plastic production in coming decades: urgent action is required. Plastic People  is an educational wake-up call to the dangers of plastic pollution and its impacts on the human body. Subscribe to our newsletter to read our next blog: Plastics and Pollution… +++++++++++++++++ For more information contact: info@scarabtrust.org.uk *Featured in Plastic People : Dr Sedat Gündoğdu from the Microplastic Research Group, Cukurova Unversity Susan Freinkel, author: Plastic: a Toxic Love Story All images © Plastic People Documentary Productions Inc.

Plastic People: 1. Documentary Review

Ben Addelman’s Plastic People  is a must-watch documentary offering a chilling exploration of our journey from homo-sapiens to “...

Read More

Health

We’ve just heard about a new recycling scheme, very similar to a Deposit Return Scheme (DRS), operating in three Suffolk towns. This scheme has collected 13,407 plastic bottles and 2,575 aluminium cans in the last 12 months.  Reverse Vending Machines The Council agreed to install “reverse vending machines” in Bury St Edmunds, Newmarket and Haverhill to collect used plastic bottles and cans. It is the brainchild of their councillor Janne Jarvis, who is familiar with the successful DRS schemes used in Scandinavia. Scandinavia does DRS far better than we do in the UK – for example Norway achieves a return rate of 92.3% for drinks containers.  Objectives The scheme in West Suffolk had three objectives: to increase recycling rates, to reduce the Council’s carbon footprint and to change public behaviour to engage more in environmental initiatives. It is supported by two suppliers: Polytag, which monitors the number of items collected, and Trovr which provides the smartphone app that rewards consumers for recycling their containers with points they can spend in certain shops. Reducing litter The UK government plans to introduce DRS in 2027, which would potentially reduce the litter discarded into the environment, and make a huge difference to plastic pollution. This model could work anywhere. We hope to see more towns and businesses getting involved in DRS even sooner. It is a simple way to encourage people to dispose of their cans and bottles in a more thoughtful and environmentally friendly way, and reduce plastic pollution. The scheme in Suffolk proves that DRS can work well. It is interesting because it was largely driven by one individual, Janne Jarvis, who campaigned hard to win the support of the suppliers and the Council. If one person can achieve this through his hard work, just think what we could achieve if more of us push for similar schemes in our own towns. +++++++++++++++++ For more information contact: info@scarabtrust.org.uk Image:

New Recycling Scheme in West Suffolk: Circularity with Reverse Vending Machines

We’ve just heard about a new recycling scheme, very similar to a Deposit Return Scheme (DRS), operating in three Suffolk towns. This...

Read More

Waste

Sustainability means using resources that we can continue using in the long-term without causing irreversible harm to the environment.  Our plastic use is clearly unsustainable. Traditional plastics are made from non-renewable fossil fuels, such as oil and natural gas. Plastic released into the environment causes untold and irreversible harm to human health and ecosystems. The life cycle of plastic is also responsible for 3.4% of global greenhouse gas emissions . Is it possible then to make plastics sustainable? Many potential ‘sustainable’ plastics solutions have been developed. These include bio-based plastics, biodegradable plastics and improved recycling techniques and collections.  Bio-based plastics are made from biomass e.g. sugar cane or other crops, and so are potentially more sustainable. Alternatively, biodegradable plastics can be broken down into safe by-products, potentially reducing plastic pollution. Recycling collections and techniques have also been advanced to improve waste management. Unintended consequences However, many of these solutions have developed in isolation and may have unintended environmental, social and economic consequences  to the rest of the plastics life cycle. Any sustainable plastics solution needs to be developed with an awareness of how it impacts each part of this cycle.  Importantly, technological solutions alone are not enough to create a sustainable plastics system. With plastic production set to triple by 2060 , a drastic reduction in plastic production is required. This means holding corporations to account, introducing effective plastics legislation and encouraging consumer behaviour change (reduce, reuse). +++++++++++++++++ For more information contact: info@scarabtrust.org.uk   Image: bio compostable bag - Image by John Cameron (ST ref: 1149)

Sustainable Plastic: 1. What are Sustainable Plastics?

Sustainability means using resources that we can continue using in the long-term without causing irreversible harm to the environment. ...

Read More

Pollution

Every day, we’re surrounded by plastic—it's in our homes, streets, and oceans. The global community has recognized the need for a change, and world leaders are coming together to finalize a groundbreaking treaty aimed at addressing plastic pollution. But reaching an agreement is proving to be more complicated than expected. Why the World Needs a Global Plastics Treaty Plastic pollution is not just about litter; it's a serious environmental, social justice and health threat. Most plastics are made from fossil fuels, and the production process contributes to climate change .  Paper from the Moore Institute for Plastic Pollution Research reveals that every increase in plastic production results in the same increase in plastic pollution ​. Another study by the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory warns that projected increases in plastic production could consume up to 26% of the world's remaining carbon budget​. That’s why in 2022, the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA) launched negotiations to create a binding Global Plastics Treaty . The aim is to address plastic's full lifecycle—from production to disposal. Key Priorities in the Treaty The treaty negotiations focus on several crucial areas: Reducing Plastic Production : Many countries and environmental groups are pushing for limits on how much plastic can be produced. The goal is to cap and then phase down plastic production, but not all countries agree. Chemicals in Plastic : Plastics contain thousands of harmful chemicals , some of which do not break down during any form of recycling, making them dangerous for both people and the environment. The treaty aims to ban or limit these toxic substances. Product Design and Waste Management : Improving how plastic products are designed can make them easier to recycle and reduce the amount of waste they generate. More effective waste management is another goal​. Microplastics : Tiny plastic particles, known as micro or nano plastics, have been found in the ocean, soil, food and water, and every part of our bodies. Tackling this invisible form of pollution is another priority for the treaty. Support for Affected Communities : Indigenous communities and those living near plastic production sites are often hit hardest by pollution. For example, Canada’s Aamjiwnaang First Nation (image above) suffers health issues due to emissions from nearby plastic facilities. The treaty seeks to support these communities and ensure a " Just Transition " for workers in industries dependent on plastic. Challenges and Industry Opposition Countries like France and Denmark have been champions of reducing plastic production, but they face opposition from nations with large petrochemical industries, like Saudi Arabia. At the most recent meeting in Ottawa, nearly 200 representatives from the fossil fuel and chemical industries showed up to lobby against measures that would limit plastic production. The debate has split countries into those pushing for stronger measures and those opposing restrictions on production. Civil society groups and environmental advocates are working hard to ensure that the treaty includes strict production limits. Meanwhile, over 30 countries have signed the " Bridge to Busan " declaration, which calls for a strong commitment to cutting plastic production. Getting more countries on board is an urgent priority. What’s Next? The final round of negotiations is set for Busan, Korea, starting end of November. This will be the last chance to shape the treaty before it becomes legally binding. The stakes are high—if countries can agree on strong measures, it could drastically reduce the world’s plastic footprint and protect the environment for future generations. However, disagreements remain, and if these issues aren't resolved, some fear that the treaty could be weakened or delayed. On the other hand, there’s hope that countries committed to change will push through a strong agreement, even if it means some nations don’t sign on immediately. Why It Matters This treaty has been compared to the Paris Climate Agreement because of its potential to reshape industries and protect the planet. But unlike climate change, plastic pollution is something we all see and interact with daily. The food we buy, the packaging we throw away—all of it contributes to the growing problem. That’s why it’s crucial to stay informed and support global efforts to reduce plastic pollution. In the end, this treaty isn’t just about governments—it’s about all of us. By pushing for change , we can ensure a healthier, plastic-free future. +++++++++++++++++ For more information contact: info@scarabtrust.org.uk Contact details for UK delegates here Thanks also to: Dialogue Earth: Plastics Treaty’s Penultimate Talks: Five Takeaways ​ The UN Global Plastics Treaty: INC5 and opportunities ahead Images GPT INC2 Greenpeace projection - Image by Greenpeace Tokyo  (ST ref: 1324) Canada’s Aamjiwnaang First Nation Intervention - Image by CIEL (ST ref: 1325) Coca Cola Bottle Waste - Image by  John Cameron (ST ref: 1224) Girl holding plastic recycling - Image by Wayhomestudio (ST ref: 1230)

The Global Fight Against Plastic Pollution

Every day, we’re surrounded by plastic—it's in our homes, streets, and oceans. The global community has recognized the need for a change,...

Read More

Legislation

In April 2024, Coca-Cola, the largest beverage manufacturer in the world, launched an eye-catching campaign titled ‘ Recycle Me ’ in Latin America showing aluminium coke cans, (as opposed to their plastic bottles) being recycled. The manufacturer, which aims to make all of its packaging 100% recyclable by 2025, is one of the many consumer businesses who have touted recycling as the solution to the plastics pollution crisis. The data , however, does not support this proposed solution, with less than 10% of the plastic produced making it to the recycling phase. Coca-Cola itself has failed to meet its recycling targets  year after year, gaining the notorious title of the worst plastic polluter in the world . The plastics industry also fails to highlight one of the most important drawbacks of this ‘circular use of plastic’ through recycling: reports  have shown plastic to be damaging for our health as it causes cancer, increases the risk of prematurity and stillbirth in children while also contributing to the spread of transmitted diseases like Malaria.  The Circular Use of Plastic:  A ‘circular economy’ is a sustainable model of production where products are kept in circulation within the market through recycling and reuse. Plastic, however, has been shown to be incompatible with this production system. Apart from doubts about plastic's recyclability , any toxic chemicals in its original composition can transfer onto the recycled plastics.  A report by Greenpeace, titled ‘Forever Toxic: The Science On Health Threats From Plastic Recycling ’, presents the three pathways through which dangerous chemicals enter recycled plastic.  Firstly, it found that some of the toxic chemicals in the material do not break down during the recycling process, and so are passed along to the recycled product.  Secondly, toxic chemicals enter the recycling chain through pathways such as pesticide containers and cleaning solvents. Plastic can absorb these chemicals, leading to contamination.  Finally, new toxic chemicals can be generated during the recycling process when the plastic is heated up. This also presents a great health risk for future consumers.  A  study  conducted on recycled plastic pellets secured from various regions in the Global South found high concentrations of 162 biocides in the samples, among other hazardous items that make the plastic unsuitable to be reused. Additionally, a 2022 report  produced by the Human Rights Watch detailed the adverse health problems faced by workers at recycling plants in Turkey. Workers developed health problems after inhaling toxic fumes and chemicals during the recycling process due to gases being released into the surrounding environment.  With recycled plastic products poisoning consumers , workers, as well as the environment, the benefits of the process have to be called into question over the potential harm it presents for human health and environment.  Are There Any Steps Being Taken?  Big plastic manufacturers strategically put the focus on recycling instead of cutting down on plastic production so that the onus of responsibility would fall on consumers. With the production of plastic waste set to almost triple by 2060 and around 9% recycled, it has become imperative for measures to be implemented that push industries to stop hiding behind recycling, and pledge to cut down on the production and usage of plastic altogether.  In 2022, UN member states adopted a resolution  which called for a legally binding global treaty. The resolution aimed to address the full lifecycle of plastic, including its production, design and disposal. Vested interests vigorously oppose the inclusion of production. Some of those in favour are pushing for a 40% cut in production by 2040 and Greenpeace is advocating for 75% .   The Global Plastics Treaty is scheduled to be agreed this year and has been going through five stages of negotiation, the last of which should be completed in Busan, Korea in November. A strong successful treaty should achieve a drastic reduction in plastic production.   The aim is to move away from focussing on making plastic a part of everyday life, spend time and resources to recycle such materials, and eventually phase them out, so that future generations can have healthier plastic-free lives.     +++++++++++++++++ For more information contact: info@scarabtrust.org.uk Images man and girl with globe covered eyes - Image by ArtHouse Studio (ST ref: 1323) plastic bottles recycling - Image by Hans (ST ref: 1130) GPT INC2 Greenpeace projection - Image by Greenpeace Tokyo  (ST ref: 1324)

Forever Toxic: Health Threats From Plastic Recycling

In April 2024, Coca-Cola, the largest beverage manufacturer in the world, launched an eye-catching campaign titled ‘ Recycle Me ’ in...

Read More

Health

The average European drinks   118 litres of bottled water  each year,   97%  of which are in plastic bottles, a well-recognised source of pollution and environmental harm . However, many companies such as Danone , Nestle  and Buxton Water  promote their plastic bottles as environmentally friendly using claims related to recycling.  A 2023 report from the BEUC  * (The European Consumer Organisation) shows many such claims to be either vague, factually inaccurate or otherwise not substantiated. What kind of claims do companies make? Many plastic water bottle companies claim that their packaging is ‘100% recycled’ and/or ‘100% recyclable’. These statements suggest environmental sustainability. Amcor’s European consumer survey  highlights how environmental claims influence consumer choice. Therefore, the accuracy of such claims is important in allowing consumers to make informed purchases. 100% recycled An average consumer may reasonably assume that if a bottle is labelled as 100% recycled, it is made entirely from recycled materials. These materials should be previously used, collected, processed and remanufactured into a bottle. However, this is not true of plastic bottles. Only the main component of most plastic bottles, made from PET (polyethylene terephthalate), can initially be made from fully recycled plastic. After PET has been recycled a few times ‘virgin’ (i.e. unrecycled) plastic must be added to maintain product quality. This may include offcuts from the manufacturing process, which are often counted as ‘recycled’ content even though they rely on the production of more virgin plastic. This is not what many people would understand of the claim ‘made from 100% recycled material’.  Other components, such as the lid and label, cannot easily be made from recycled materials. There are also different methods used to allocate 'recycled content' to each bottle, sometimes meaning that individual bottles could actually contain little to no recycled content. When questioned by the BEUC, only a few companies could name certification schemes to verify how they allocate recycled content. 100% recyclable The term ‘100% recyclable’ is ambiguous with no universally agreed definition. It is reasonable to assume that recyclability should depend on both the nature of the material and the infrastructure in place to enable recycling. However, the materials which make up a plastic bottle are not always recyclable by these metrics, for example caps and labels. A Eunomia report commissioned by   Zero Waste Europe  shows how even the main PET component, which is a plastic that can be recycled, cannot be seen as fully recyclable as the infrastructure to collect bottles for recycling is not always available. Only 60%  of plastic bottles in Europe are collected for recycling. Plastic also gets lost during sorting, cleaning and remanufacturing. Lost plastic leaks into the environment, is incinerated or ends up in landfill.  In addition, the recycling process degrades plastic meaning that additional virgin plastic needs to be added to maintain quality. PET bottles cannot be infinitely recycled. Importantly only 31%  of the recycled plastic from PET bottles is used to make more bottles. The remainder is made into other PET plastic products or ‘downcycled’  to make different lower-grade plastic products which are difficult to recycle. Plastic bottle circularity Inaccurate claims of ‘100% recycled’ or ‘100% recyclable’ clearly mislead the consumer. These claims are often accompanied by circular or green imagery. This messaging promotes the false idea that bottles can be recycled again and again, bottle-to-bottle, neutralising the negative environmental impact. Bottled water producers engage in   greenwashing tactics . To sell their products, they make claims that lead the consumer to falsely believe they are making good environmental choices. This effectively deters consumers from real sustainable options, slowing down any green transition.  Legality of these environmental claims The BEUC report  argues that these environmental claims should fall under the scope of the Unfair Commercial Practices Directive (UCPD). This EU legislation prohibits misleading actions and omissions in promotional claims and requires supporting evidence for any statements.  Plastic bottles harm the environment at every stage Even if bottles could be processed in the circular manner suggested, all plastic waste management, including recycling, harms the environment by generating pollution such as greenhouse gases. Ironically, the manufacturing and recycling processes uses vast amounts of a decreasing resource: water. The most sustainable way to consume water is not in single-use plastic bottles, but in refillable bottles from the tap wherever possible. +++++++++++++++++ For more information contact: info@scarabtrust.org.uk Images Circular recycling plastic bottles - Image by  Clker-Free-Vector-Images (ST ref: 1322) plastic bottle - Image by pasja1000 (ST ref: 1127) Greenwashing one to ten - Image from sigmaearth.com (ST ref: 1295)  *The BEUC report was made with a non-governmental association of national consumer groups across Europe with technical expertise from ClientEarth  and ECOS .  Edited 6 Aug 2024

Misleading Recycling Claims: The Greenwashing Tactics of Bottled Water Companies

The average European drinks 118 litres of bottled water each year, 97% of which are in plastic bottles, a well-recognised source of...

Read More

Corporate

“If you really believe in something you can make it happen and it’s okay to make it up as you go along.”* Back in 2016, Dan Webb thought that plastic pollution happened in other parts of the world, not at home in the UK. Many of us thought the same way in the years before Blue Planet II , except that when Dan moved out of London to a coastal town and was really shocked to see how much plastic pollution there was on the beaches, he decided to do something about it. Inspiration He started to realise just how much packaging there was in the supermarket, the amount that he was bringing home and how much was thrown away.  Recycling was supposed to solve the plastic problem but clearly wasn’t working.  How much was he throwing away, was it all food and drink packaging from the supermarket? What was actually happening  to all of his plastic waste? This is where Dan’s story differs from most of ours.    He decided not to throw away a single piece of plastic waste for an entire year. Whether he was at home or at work, at the pub or the cinema, visiting family or on holiday, he made sure that none of the plastic waste he produced would be thrown away. No bottle tops, no inner soles from his shoes, no toothbrushes, no toothpaste packets…  Towards the end of the year there were 4,500 pieces of plastic in 22 bin bags piled in his spare room! It took four days with 20 volunteers to separate, count, categorise, photograph and weigh every single piece, covering the floor of a 2000 capacity music venue and he knew that he had a story to tell! Telling the story It was about this time that Blue Planet II  thrust plastic pollution into the limelight. Dan was able to tell his story to a wider audience, and the reaction made him realise that the sight of his own plastic footprint was much more relevant than the often quoted: ‘8 million tons of plastic entering the ocean every year, more plastic than fish in the sea by 2050.’ If this experiment had such a dramatic effect on his own thinking, by offering this experience to others, it would help them discover their own plastic footprint and galvanise and inform them. He started work on developing a project that would do just that. Birth of the Big Plastic Count Dan trialled the project with families, schools, businesses and community groups for almost two and a half years, some of it over Zoom during lockdown. The brief for the project was simple. All you had to do was count your plastic waste for just a week (not a year) and then submit your results online. That generates your plastic footprint.  At an individual level this helps people to connect to the Plastic problem, and  to understand it better. It provides them with the real data to help them understand and reduce their own plastic waste. Working with Greenpeace UK, the Big Plastic Count went national, and since 2022 472,000 people have taken part and they have counted 11 million pieces of plastic.   Plastic Free July That was how Everyday Plastic got started. If you have taken part in this year’s Big Plastic Count, or just want to make a change, then they suggest some simple things you can do to reduce your own plastic footprint  here . +++++++++++++++++ For more information contact: info@scarabtrust.org.uk Images Beach plastic UK - image by author albatross chick fed on plastic - image by  kris krüg (ST ref: 1316) screenshot from www.everydayplastic.org/ *Dan Webb, founder Everyday Plastic

A Story for Plastic Free July

“If you really believe in something you can make it happen and it’s okay to make it up as you go along.”* Back in 2016, Dan Webb thought...

Read More

Lifestyle

The WWF-UK reports that in the UK alone we use between 2.5 billion and 5 billion disposable coffee cups every year. The UK government published guidelines to ban single-use plastics in 2024, but this does not include hot drinks containers. As a response to the UK high street's continued use of single-use coffee cups, City to Sea  provide returnable cups. It was first launched in Bristol in 2016.  The single-use plastics campaigning charity provided returnable cups schemes for businesses, cafés, campuses, and even tourist hotspots. They partnered with providers such as circular&Co and Reuser in order to help fund the scheme. In 2016, City to Sea launched the world’s first (free with a returnable deposit for the cup) Refill  app to promote living with less plastic across Bristol. It shares refill locations for ‘water, coffee, food containers and plastic-free shopping’. The scheme was also launched in Bath. Their website has a blueprint for companies to implement their own Refill Return cup scheme. The Refill Return cup is an alternative to customers bringing their own refillable bottles or cups sometimes containing recycled plastic. Many people forget their cup at home, according to Perfect Daily Grind. Although two thirds of people report having a returnable cup, four in ten do not bring a cup when buying a hot drink. However, the Refill app includes reminders and promotions to keep customers motivated. The choice is to reuse their cup, or exchange it for a clean one.  To measure the cup's impact, City to Sea published a guide and ran several case studies at cafes, public venues and a university. Users paid a small extra fee for their cup, then gave them back to the shop when done. The cost is then refunded in exchange for the cup. For example, the University of Bath charged £3 for a returnable cup. The returnable cups were so popular that the only complaint was why the smoothie cups were not reusable. This promoted a circular plastics economy alongside the bring your own cup (BYOC) industry.  Personalised schemes  City to Sea advises venues to have a cup design that is not attractive enough for customers to want to keep. The Circular Return Cup can have a QR code or an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) chip to trace the cups' journey and return. At Blenheim House, a trial with RFID led to some success, but some users did not return them because they visited the venue once.  There are promotions and personalisation through the Refill app. Some venues offered free hot drinks for every purchase for employees and customers to encourage behaviour change. This change was one of the aims for the Circular Return Cup scheme. Many people think they are buying the cup, but it is really a loan. Other challenges include time lost downloading the app itself, baristas needing to explain the scheme and inputting card details.  Is it more ecological?  The main problem is that single-use coffee cups accumulate in landfill sites, beaches, riverbanks, or they need to be incinerated. Buying reusables has the potential to be as convenient as single-use, both for businesses and consumers. It raises the profile of reducing plastic waste. The City to Sea Refill guide (see ' Making Reuse a Reality ') includes advice for specific locations and a handy calculator to work out CO₂ savings.  Among other initiatives, including most recently World Refill Day , City to Sea recommends taking the following steps to encourage behaviour change: a first trial, returning the reusable cup and becoming a repeat customer. It is a small change to avoid more plastic waste polluting the environment.  +++++++++++++++++ For more information contact: info@scarabtrust.org.uk Tags: WeChooseReuse, System change, Waste Images: Two People Holding Coffee Cups- Image from Senior Living (ST ref 1311) Woman holding refill return cup - Image by Refill (ST ref 1253)

The Future Is Returnable – A Circular Economy for Plastic Cups

The WWF-UK reports that in the UK alone we use between 2.5 billion and 5 billion disposable coffee cups every year. The UK government...

Read More

Lifestyle

Over the last few months, you might have noticed more news stories talking about forever chemicals. But you might not realise the true scale of the threat they pose to our planet – and your health.  PFAS, also known as ‘forever chemicals’, are a group of over 10,000 man-made chemicals used in many consumer goods. More and more evidence is showing a connection between PFAS and damage to the environment and human health. And PFAS are already everywhere: one recent study found evidence of forever chemical pollution at 17,000 sites in Europe alone.  What are PFAS? PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are man-made chemicals that are used in a wide range of products. They are found in everyday items such as non-stick cookware, waterproof clothing, and food packaging. The chances that  you have nothing containing PFAS in your home are very low. PFAS are often called ‘forever chemicals’ because they persist for a long time in the environment and are difficult to break down. Once they are released into the environment, they will linger for years or even decades, contaminating soil, water, and wildlife. Because PFAS are resistant to natural degradation, they can accumulate in the environment over time. To make things worse, studies have found increasing levels of PFAS present in living organisms, including humans. What's the link between PFAS and single-use plastics? Due to their unique properties, PFAS are used at different life cycle stages of plastic products, including production and in products themselves . Their resistance to heat and water makes them useful for making products like non-stick pans, waterproof clothing, and food packaging. Many single-use plastics contain PFAS to make them more durable and water- and oil- repellent, including shopping bags, food containers, plastic cups, and disposable cutlery. However, when these products are discarded, they end up in landfills or oceans, where the PFAS can  migrate into the environment. Studies have shown that exposure to acidic or alkaline conditions can cause PFAS to leach out of plastic products, contaminating water sources and exposing plants and animals.  How can PFAS harm the environment and my health? Some PFAS have been shown to have a detrimental impact on both the environment and human health. These chemicals do not break down easily, and some can take over 1000 years to degrade . PFAS contaminate the food chain, and high levels have been found in the blood of humans and animals around the world. PFAS can be regarded as a threat to wildlife and may be contributing to the decline of some plant and animal species.  Scientists have linked some well studied PFAS to a variety of health problems, including cancer, liver damage, and immune system dysfunction . They can also affect reproductive health and development, and have been associated with decreased fertility and birth weight in humans. What can I do about PFAS? Firstly, there are a few easy steps you can take to reduce your exposure. Avoid using products that contain PFAS whenever possible. For example, you can look for alternatives to non-stick cookware and opt for natural fabrics instead of waterproof clothing. Choose glass or stainless steel containers instead of single-use plastics. If you do use plastic containers, make sure they are PFAS-free. The main uptake of PFAS for the general public is however  through food and water . Next, you might consider boycotting products and companies that use PFAS. Give your business to companies who don’t use forever chemicals in their products. Check here  for a list of retailers committed to phasing out PFAS. Finally, you can take action. Contact your local representative. Sign a petition  to demand greater regulation. Get involved with an environmental organisation near you. Your health and our shared environment need to be protected – so make sure your voice is heard today. For more information contact: info@scarabtrust.org.uk   With thanks to EEB (Christine Hermann) for support. Images:  Products that contain PFAS - graphic from NY State Dept of Health (ST ref: 1251) Reported effects of PFAS on humans - Image from  Environmental Sciences Europe (ST ref: 1250)

Plastics and Forever Chemicals: How PFAS Damage the Environment and Your Health

Over the last few months, you might have noticed more news stories talking about forever chemicals. But you might not realise the true...

Read More

Pollution

Environmental and economic arguments for reuse Too often conflated with recycling, reuse involves multiple circulations of reusable packaging , where outlets provide customers with packaging on a loan basis, before it is returned for cleaning and reuse. It is environmentally beneficial: plastic production is reduced overall when reuse systems are established. Reuse also makes economic sense, with the projected net benefit across Europe amounting to €1.8 trillion by 2030 .   For reuse to work, the ‘sustainability breakeven point’ is crucial, balancing the raw materials required for the container with the number of reuses necessary to make it environmentally better than its single-use equivalent. This isn’t a new concept – doorstep glass-bottled milk delivery is a familiar example . Despite the potential benefits of reuse, consumer packaging still comprises predominantly single-use plastics, with  36% of all solid waste stemming from single-use packaging.  As things stand, in Europe alone 14.38 million tons  of single-use beverage materials and 60 billion units  of packaging are consumed each year.  Other solutions, such as substituting existing materials with compostable packaging actually have worse environmental impacts,  and so reuse must now take centre-stage.  Successful reuse systems In the UK reuse is highly localised, usually occurring in individual households or single-businesses. In mainland Europe re-use is increasingly widespread. In citywide schemes such as that of Tubingen , Germany, the reuse strategy is a combination of subsidies, infrastructure, taxes and consumers’ rights to use reusable containers. In the Netherlands, disposables are now prohibited at festivals, and charges now apply for single-use packaging sold at certain venues such as train stations. Across Europe, suppliers of reusable packaging are now supplying leading food-delivery companies such as Just Eat, Deliveroo and Uber eats. While these examples highlight the potential for scaling-up re-use, achieving this requires changes to an infrastructure that is currently optimised for recycling. It is likely that the transition from single-use to reusable plastics would have high up-front costs, which would only be recouped up to three years after the transition. Businesses will also need to consider the impact on consumer behaviour. The future of reuse: regulation, accountability and technology One way to incentivise re-use is through regulation. When levies and taxes are accounted for, overall costs for reusable packaging are favourable. The United Nations Environment Assembly’s Global Plastics Treaty negotiations represent progress. At the May 2023 meeting of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee, reuse featured more prominently as a solution to plastics pollution in its options paper , with proposed obligations focusing on product design and  a “reduce, reuse and repair of plastic products” ethos – distinct from recycling.  In a step towards increased accountability the World Economic Forum (WEF) has led an initiative  to chart companies’ progress with reuse across their portfolios using agreed metrics. Likewise, Upstream’s ‘Chart Reuse’  analytics tool supports companies in evaluating their reuse progress and the Netherlands Institute of Sustainable Packaging has a way to calculate emissions connected to reuse processes, so a full environmental comparison with single-use plastics is feasible. Transnational companies such as Unilever and Coca-Cola now claim to set their own reuse targets, which the WEF says are working ‘in parallel’ with the European Union’s Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive, which includes some mandatory measures. However, both have been heavily criticised by  Greenpeace  for lack of ambition and slow progress, suggesting that their PR campaigns are mostly greenwash . Celebrate World Refill Day While some businesses are slow to act, individuals can adopt reuse-friendly consumer habits now.   Refill’s mobile phone app  connects users to over 330,000 Refill stations globally, and promotes new, user-initiated reuse schemes, 420 of which are in the UK, with others in countries as far apart as Japan and Ecuador . Refill estimates that its 400,000 users have already avoided 100 million pieces of plastic being wasted.  World Refill Day is 16th June 2024, so why not download the Refill app  and join the campaign?! +++++++++++++++++ For more information contact: info@scarabtrust.org.uk Images: Sustainability breakeven point - Table University of Portsmouth (ST ref: 1166) zero waste store by Wix (ST ref: 1304) greenpeace banner global plastics treaty  - Image by Greenpeace (ST ref: 1155) Refill App

Making Reuse a Reality: A systems approach to tackling single-use plastic pollution

Environmental and economic arguments for reuse Too often conflated with recycling, reuse involves multiple circulations of reusable...

Read More

Waste

It is not uncommon to see images or videos online of turtles trapped in plastic six-pack rings or with plastic straws stuck up their nose; however, whilst this is terribly damaging, it is not the only threat to marine life caused by plastic pollution. Other ways plastic can affect marine life are ingestion, biomagnification, bioaccumulation, habitat destruction and chemical pollution . Entanglement and Injury Any type of plastic in the ocean can lead to animal entanglement but plastics that are manufactured in loops are often the most dangerous. Plastic loops can easily become hooked around the limbs, body, neck and even in the mouth of marine animals . Prolonged entanglement can lead to severe pain in the long term for animals as it can cause ulceration and deep laceration of underlying soft tissues. For any air breathing animal, death can come a lot quicker when entangled as the plastic can inhibit their access to the surface leading to asphyxiation or drowning. Fishing gear is a leading component of ocean plastic, making up approximately 20% of all marine plastic  and is the largest identified cause of death due to human activity for minke and humpback whales in Scottish waters. Ingestion Microplastics are tiny pieces of plastic less than 5 millimetres in size, and they are a growing environmental problem in the ocean. Microplastics are formed when plastics break down into small particles under the influence of many factors such as wind, currents and UV radiation . Due to their size, microplastics are very easily mistaken for food by animals such as fish, turtles, and birds. When ingested, microplastics can have a damaging effect on animals as it can reduce food intake, delay growth and cause oxidative damage .  Bioaccumulation Even life at the bottom of the food chain such as fish larvae and plankton ingest microplastics . Bioaccumulation is the increasing concentration of persistent, toxic substances in organisms at each level, from the bottom of the food chain to the top. These are substances that are fat soluble, not water soluble, and are stored in the fat reserves of each organism. Microplastics accumulate in animal fat and tissue as they move up the food chain and this leads to an increase in toxic chemicals absorbed by microplastics within marine animals. Not only are these toxic chemicals damaging to the health of animals, but they can then be transferred to humans via the consumption of animal products. Chemical Pollution Tel Aviv University found  that microplastics can absorb and concentrate toxic organic substances and increase their toxicity by a factor of 10 when in marine environments. During the manufacture of certain plastics, chemicals such as BPA and Phthalates can be added to the product . In general, microplastics act as a transport system for toxic chemicals through the food chain. They can attract and concentrate toxins. Once this plastic is in circulation these chemical additives can be released into aquatic systems. They are often harmful, sometimes deadly to marine life. Is it really such a problem? When disposed of incorrectly, plastic can become a huge problem for the ocean and marine life. Over 14 million tonnes of plastic end up in the ocean every year according to IUCN  – the equivalent of around 63,000 commercial aircraft. This colossal amount of plastic can affect marine life in the ways described above. It is estimated that ocean plastics kill roughly 100,000 marine mammals  every year. What is the Solution? Plastic litter generally originates from land and ends up in the ocean via wind, rain, boat littering, river littering as well as people’s behaviour on the beach .  Pollution from microplastics it is not new. Their size makes them incredibly difficult to clean up, and we have reached the point where no amount of money or technology can do more than skim the surface of the problem (literally in some cases). While we, as consumers, can reduce our single use plastic consumption, this will only go so far. This is why, despite the efforts of industry and consumer brands to dilute the outcome, the Global Plastic Treaty that is currently being negotiated must succeed in cutting the problem off at source and limit the production of plastics. We must lobby decision makers to Turn off the Tap on single use plastic. +++++++++++++++++ For more information contact: info@scarabtrust.org.uk Images: white and blue ocean waves - Photo by  Matt Paul Catalano (ST ref: 1313) turtle caught in a drift net - Image by Sébastien Stradal for MDC Seamarc Maldives (ST ref: 1190) school of fish in plastic - Photo by Naja Bertolt Jensen (ST ref: 1181) Impact of marine plastic in the microbial loop - Image by Frontiers in Marine Science (ST ref: 1203) Discarded plastic bottles - Image by mbeo (ST ref: 1299)`

How the Ocean Is Under Threat From Plastics Pollution

It is not uncommon to see images or videos online of turtles trapped in plastic six-pack rings or with plastic straws stuck up their...

Read More

Pollution

Microscopic plastic waste is now ubiquitous on earth. It’s found on the highest peaks of the Himalayas and at the bottom of the Pacific Ocean. It’s sadly no surprise that we unknowingly inhale microscopic plastics in the air we breathe, perhaps thousands of tiny particles a day, the health effects of which are only just being realised. Exposure to these invisible nano-plastic particles by inhalation – some less than 1/100th of the width of a human hair – spreads them to every part of our bodies. Through our airways they can reach the deepest part of our lungs, pass into the bloodstream, and even be transferred to our children through the placenta and breastmilk. Scientists are only now beginning to understand the potential extent of the harm to human health these airborne micro and nano plastics are having on us all. A toxic cocktail A new report by the Centre for International Environmental Law, Breathing Plastic: the Health Impacts of Invisible Plastics in the Air,  has assessed the highly likely damage this toxic cocktail can have. Its authors warn of the potential to harm the reproductive, cardiovascular, immune, lymphatic, and vascular systems. While airborne microplastics research is in its infancy, studies on the frequent inhalation of micro and nanoparticles show that they can have immediate and long-term effects such as cancer after chronic exposure.  The ease with which the tiny particles are transported allows them to be inhaled into the lungs with immediate effects on the respiratory tract, including asthma-like reactions, bronchitis, and auto-immune diseases. From there they can enter the bloodstream to affect our internal organs as well as the brain, increasing the risk of neurological disorders such as ADHD.  There is also the potential to harm male and female fertility, as well as leading to worse birth outcomes for new-borns. Although the full effects of long term exposure on reproductivity are not yet known, more research is being urgently carried out over the next five years. Stopping it at source The exponential increase in plastic production has led to a ten-fold increase in plastic waste over the last 50 years.   This period of increase corresponds to a rise in microplastics in atmospheric studies. Micro and nano-plastics are created either as primary by-products from the production of agrochemicals and pharmaceuticals, or from the smaller fragmentation of larger plastic particles which have been broken down.  One study from 2020, for example, found atmospheric plastic was created after plastic in the sea is broken down and turned into a plastic sea spray. The ultimate source, however, of atmospheric plastic pollution is undeniably the unstoppable surge in global plastic production by the petrochemical industry which has fought off global regulation with legally-binding measures. The authors of the report warn that voluntary approaches at self-regulation of the industry have failed, as the inexorable rise of plastic production is expected to almost quadruple by 2050.  At the heart of this is the basic freedom to have clean air. Individuals can only do so much. HEPA filters can be used to recycle the air in the home, while the minimal use of plastics in food preparation, especially heating food in plastic containers, can reduce contamination to an extent. But these are a 'temporary bandage for a systemic problem' which require legally binding measures to curb the production of plastic, the authors conclude. +++++++++++++++++ For more information contact: info@scarabtrust.org.uk Images:

Airborne Plastics: An Invisible Threat?

Microscopic plastic waste is now ubiquitous on earth. It’s found on the highest peaks of the Himalayas and at the bottom of the Pacific...

Read More

​

A recent study  by the University of Strathclyde reveals  that alarming amounts of microplastics are being produced by an unnamed plastics recycling plant in the UK. This discovery highlights a somewhat ironic dark side to an industry that many have touted as a sustainable solution to plastic pollution. New evidence raises concerns Researchers sampled the facility’s wastewater before and after the introduction of a filtration system. Before filtration, 13% of the plastic processed was being released into the water as microplastics. After filtration, it decreased to 6%—but this would still equal about 1,366 metric tonnes of microplastics annually. And the problem isn’t just in the water; the study also found high levels of microplastics in the air around the recycling plant. What are microplastics? Microplastics are tiny plastic particles up to 5mm in diameter (or 5000 microns), according to the UNEP definition . Microplastics can be categorised into two types: primary and secondary. Primary microplastic particles are manufactured intentionally at that size (e.g. cosmetic facial scrubs with microbeads), while secondary microplastics result from the breakdown of larger plastic items (e.g. water bottles, tyres, bags). In this particular University of Strathclyde study, more than 80% of the microplastic particles found in the (filtered) water at the facility were smaller than 5 microns (0.005mm), and more than 90% were smaller than 10 microns (0.01mm). Of the microplastic particles found in the air, more than 60% were smaller than 10 microns (0.01mm). Microplastics are considered a threat to the environment, wildlife, and potentially human health , as they have the capacity to build up within the food chain, release harmful substances, and concentrate and transport various chemicals, microorganisms, and pathogens. Why is this research worrying? Along with the direct harm that the microplastic pollution emitted by this individual recycling plant could cause to ecosystems, this important research brings up a host of questions and concerns about the broader implications of the global plastic recycling industry. The unnamed facility represents a 'best case scenario ,' according to lead researcher Erina Brown. The plant is considered state-of-the-art, and the presence of a water filtration system at all may make it one of the least pollutive facilities of its kind. Plus, this study had limitations on the size of plastic particles it could investigate, so the researchers assume that there are 'many, many, many '  smaller particles that went undetected. With all this in mind, it is worrying to imagine the vast amounts of microplastics that may be emitted from recycling plants around the world on a daily basis, potentially going unfiltered, unmeasured, and unregulated. More research is needed on this topic, especially as scientists continue to uncover links between microplastics and human health issues. Discussions to determine the details of the UN Global Plastics Treaty, which aims to end plastic pollution , are ongoing. With four out of five meetings  completed thus far, it is still yet clear how the treaty will approach plastics recycling and the evidence discussed in this blog post. Hopefully the UN’s intention to address the 'full life cycle ' of plastics will shine through in the treaty’s outcomes, including a nuanced approach to reforming the recycling industry, rather than simply promoting more  recycling. So, what is the solution? While wastewater filtration appears to hold promise for reducing microplastic pollution from recycling plants, this research emphasises the underlying need to #BreakFreeFromPlastic   altogether. Erina Brown, the study’s lead researcher, said  it best: 'For me, [the study] highlights how drastically we need to reduce our plastic consumption and production.' +++++++++++++++++ For more information contact: info@scarabtrust.org.uk Images: plastic bottles recycling - Image by Hans (ST ref: 1162) microplastic plain background -  5Gyres, courtesy of Oregon State University (ST ref: 1308) hand earth plastic bag - Image by Vikentiy Elizarov (ST ref: 1141a) TurnOffThePlasticTap  - Image by Von Wong (ST ref: 1310)

Plastics Recycling: More Problem Than Solution?

A recent study by the University of Strathclyde reveals that alarming amounts of microplastics are being produced by an unnamed plastics...

Read More

Waste

bottom of page