EMPA alarmed: Thousands of chemicals in plastic have unknown consequences

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The Federal Institute for Materials Testing and Research Empa wrote on Monday that publicly known problem substances such as bisphenol A (BPA) are just the tip of the iceberg. Empa researchers co-authored the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) report.

The report noted that problem substances were found in various industries and production chains. This includes toys, food packaging and medical products.

Women are especially sensitive.

Women are particularly vulnerable to these toxic chemicals, the report said. There are several reasons for this. On the one hand, women are over-represented in plastics-related jobs around the world. On the other hand, many products sold specifically for women, such as certain hygiene and cosmetics, contain high concentrations of problem substances.

On the other hand, biological factors also play a role, according to the report. On average, women have more adipose tissue where toxic chemicals can accumulate. There are also certain phases of life where exposure to chemicals has a greater impact. This includes puberty, which applies to both men and women, but also menopause for women, and pregnancy and breastfeeding, if any.

“Chemicals in plastic is a hidden danger that can affect our health and the environment worldwide,” said Empa researchers Zhanyun Wang and Narain Ashta. They demand international regulation of the processing of these chemicals.

(SDA)

Source : Blick