High levels of microplastics found in human brains
By Douglas Main
A new study has found high concentrations of tiny plastic particles in human brain samples, with levels appearing to climb over time.
plastics
Scientists cite disease “epidemic” in launch of new “Center to End Corporate Harm”
By Carey Gillam
Citing an “industrial epidemic of disease,” a group of scientists have launched an organization aimed at tracking and preventing diseases tied to pollution and products pushed by influential companies.
Beware the air you breathe – more evidence links microplastics to health problems
By Carey Gillam
People diagnosed with infertility and certain cancers may have to blame the very air they breathe, according to a new report that adds to evidence that tiny plastic particles in air pollution and other environmental sources could be causing these and other diseases and illnesses.
Outcry over Texas plastics plant points to broader industry issues
By Shannon Kelleher
As world leaders work on a global treaty to address mounting harms from plastics pollution, a Texas plastics plant seen as a “serial” corporate polluter is in the crosshairs of environmentalists who say the operation provides a prime example of the need for a halt to petrochemical development.
Can the world agree to a sensible treaty to end plastic pollution?
By Douglas Main
As the US faces the upcoming inauguration of a president known for opposing opposition regulations, delegates from the US and more than 170 countries are meeting this week try to finalize a global treaty to address plastic pollution, in a process organized by the United Nations Environment Program that launched back in spring of 2022.
Bioplastics may be toxic to soil organisms, study calls for more testing
By Douglas Main
Bioplastics, often considered a safer alternative to synthetic plastics, may in some cases be toxic to soil organisms, a worrisome finding that indicates a need for more thorough testing, according to a new study.
US EPA enables polluting plastics plants by failing to update wastewater limits, report says
By Shannon Kelleher
Federal regulators have enabled US plastics plants across the country to dump dangerous chemicals into waterways by failing to update wastewater limits for over 30 years, according to a new analysis by a watchdog group.
LA County accuses Pepsi and Coca-Cola of lying to consumers, worsening plastic pollution
By Douglas Main
Los Angeles this week sued PepsiCo and Coca-Cola for allegedly deceiving consumers and playing a “significant role” in a plastic pollution crisis that harms wildlife and poses a risk to human health.
As the world heats up, so does the debate around artificial turf
By Carmela Guaglianone
Artificial turf carpets athletic fields, playgrounds, and residential lawns across the US, offering a low-maintenance alternative to natural grass that always looks lush and doesn’t require heavy watering. But while this popular synthetic material is marketed as eco-friendly, it has also long attracted controversy.
“It’s scary”- Scientists finding mounting evidence of plastic pollution in human organs
By Douglas Main
A growing body of scientific evidence shows that microplastics are accumulating in critical human organs, including the brain, alarming findings that highlight a need for more urgent actions to rein in plastic pollution, researchers say.