Plastic leaching refers to the process in which chemicals from plastic materials seep out and contaminate the surrounding environment. These chemicals can come into contact with people through the use of disposable plates or cups, food packaging, and carton liners.
Imagine a life without plastic. It’s quite challenging, isn’t it? Just take a look around and notice how much plastic is present in our daily lives. From our food and water to Amazon packages, toys, clothes, sports equipment, and electronic components, plastic is either used or packed in these items. Unfortunately, even much of the personal protective equipment we now have to use, such as masks and face shields, is made of plastic.
We have learned in school that plastic, despite its usefulness, has negative effects on the environment and global health. We are constantly reminded to use it sparingly and find innovative ways to recycle it. But why is plastic so harmful and why does it cause so much damage?
What is Plastic?
Plastic is a type of material that is partially or entirely manmade and consists of polymers. It is lightweight, durable, and strong, and can be molded into various shapes depending on its purpose. There are numerous types of plastic, each made from different chemicals. Plastic packaging alone can contain around 4000 different chemicals.
How is Plastic Made?
Plastic is manufactured using organic monomers and polymers as raw materials. Organic hydrocarbons like cellulose, coal, and crude oil undergo extensive processing with the help of catalysts. Depending on the materials used, various types of plastic can be produced, each with its own unique properties. Other additives such as plasticizers, antioxidants, heat stabilizers, and pigments are also added to enhance the quality or appearance of the plastic.
During the production process, unwanted impurities may be generated or reaction byproducts can unintentionally find their way into the final product in trace amounts. These are known as non-intentionally added substances (NIAS).
Different forms of plastic. (Photo Credit: Antonov Maxim/Shutterstock)
The chemicals used in plastic manufacturing make them harmful. Unfortunately, the same chemicals that make plastics durable and useful also pose a threat to life in the long run. This is where plastic leaching becomes a concern.
What is Plastic Leaching?
Plastic leaching occurs when the chemicals from plastic materials seep out and contaminate the surrounding environment. This can happen with the food, beverages, or items stored inside plastic packaging, as well as the soil or water surrounding the plastic. People can come into contact with these chemicals through the use of disposable plates or cups, food packaging, and carton liners.
These plastic chemicals are not firmly attached to their polymer cores, which allows them to break off and escape into the environment over time. Factors such as heat can increase the rate of leaching. For example, when you heat food in plastic containers in the microwave, more chemicals leach out, and it happens faster.
Plastic waste left as litter facilitates the leaching of these chemicals into the environment. The chemicals from plastic cups or food wrappers that are sometimes found on the ground can seep into the surrounding soil or water. As more plastic waste is dumped into the environment, it accumulates over time and causes harm to living organisms.
Plastic releases toxic substances into the soil and water, posing a threat to the environment. Microplastics, which are tiny pieces of plastic less than half a cm in size, are of particular concern. These microplastics carry chemicals and can contaminate bottled water. Studies have shown that a significant percentage of bottled water is contaminated with microplastics. These small plastic pieces can cause harm to our bodies by disrupting our hormonal systems. Additionally, plastic waste contributes to air, land, and water pollution. When plastic is burned or dumped in landfills or the sea, it releases toxic chemicals that pollute the air, soil, and water. Plants and animals in the food chain can absorb these chemicals, leading to further contamination. Marine organisms, such as fish, can also ingest microplastics and toxic chemicals. Phthalates, a harmful chemical found in plastics and other products, are making their way into aquatic environments and contaminating drinking water. Overall, plastic pollution poses significant environmental risks and affects various aspects of our ecosystem.
Approximately 4.3 billion people, which is nearly half of the global population, consume fish. While fish may be delicious, they are becoming increasingly contaminated with toxic chemicals and microplastics. These harmful substances, such as phthalates and other plastic-associated chemicals, accumulate in fish and pose health risks for those who consume them. Various diseases have been linked to these chemicals, including male infertility caused by excessive exposure to phthalates.
Microplastics are also a cause for concern as they can harbor disease-causing germs. The use of washing machines has made laundry days easier, but the wastewater from these machines contains microplastics that originate from our clothes. This plastic debris can harbor bacteria like E.coli, which can cause diseases.
While it is too late to reverse the damage caused by plastic and its associated chemicals, we can still take steps to combat their spread and minimize our exposure. One effective approach is the use of bioplastics, which are made from biodegradable and renewable organic sources such as food waste, cellulose, and starch. Although bioplastics may not be as strong as conventional plastics, they are much more environmentally friendly.
The best course of action is to avoid using plastics whenever possible. Be cautious of fragrances that contain phthalates, as they will be labeled with the word “parfum”. Opt for glass or steel utensils instead of plastic ones. When shopping, carry reusable cloth bags. Avoid heating food in plastic containers in the microwave. Water filters with activated carbon are effective in removing phthalates.
Another promising strategy to combat the growing presence of plastic is the use of plastic-degrading bacteria. These microscopic organisms can break down plastic and plastic debris, effectively removing them from the environment. However, further research is needed to improve their rate of plastic degradation, considering the substantial amount of plastic pollution on our planet.
In conclusion, when it comes to plastic, it is important to remember the three Rs: Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle.