The plastic pandemic: Understanding the hidden danger in everyday products. The killer in our homes: Shocking poisoning revelations. Serge Gorbunov
Marlee Matlin
Plastic’s Echoes: A Century of Innovation Resounds with a Warning
Let’s think of our planet as an enormous ocean liner transporting millions of passengers. The liner is comfortable and appears to be dependable. But what happens if toxic waste quietly mixes with the gasoline stored in its fuel tanks? As time passes, it would pollute the air and water onboard.
We have samples of various plastics under the microscope. Although they may look like typical polymer granules, a closer inspection will reveal hazardous impurities!
Let’s examine the primary harmful elements of plastic.
Bisphenol A (BPA) causes hormone imbalance and can lead to cancer. Polycarbonate, a robust plastic used for bottles, dishes, medical devices, and baby nipples, is widely manufactured with Bisphenol A (BPA). Annually, Polycarbonate products release approximately three million tons of BPA into the environment. A study conducted by the University of California shows that 92% of the people whose urine was tested contained BPA. BPA chiefly affects the hormonal systems by disrupting estrogen levels. Connected to risks of not being able to have children, diabetes, being very overweight, and breast cancer.
Phthalates – they affect the hormone-producing glands in the body. They make plastic softer. They get into the body through food and can affect how someone develops. This makes them very dangerous for children and women who are pregnant. Diethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) is one of the most commonly used substances to make PVC flexible. They use it to make products such as toys, mats, and curtains more flexible. Over 2 million tons of DEHP are manufactured each year. This material can accumulate in the body and lead to disorders affecting the endocrine system, reproductive organs development, and immunity.
Polystyrene releases styrene – a carcinogen and neurotoxin – when heated or in contact with acids and fats. Styrene monomers (the molecules that create styrene) were detected in the blood and adipose tissues of consumers that frequently eat from the famous, alluring, soft, white containers composed of polystyrene foam.
Furthermore, the plastic holds many hazardous additives besides these substances.
How can I ensure that a product is safe?
To ensure that plastic goods are safe, you should pay attention to the following.
The labeling and symbols on the packaging provide useful information:
❌Avoid plastics labeled 3, 6, and 7 as they are considered hazardous. These plastics contain harmful substances:
❌Plastic labeled 3 contains phthalates.
❌Number 6 plastic contains styrene.
Конец ознакомительного фрагмента.
Текст предоставлен ООО «ЛитРес».
Прочитайте эту книгу целиком, купив полную легальную версию на ЛитРес.
Безопасно оплатить книгу можно банковской картой Visa, MasterCard, Maestro, со счета мобильного телефона, с платежного терминала, в салоне МТС или Связной, через PayPal, WebMoney, Яндекс.Деньги, QIWI Кошелек, бонусными картами или другим удобным Вам способом.