New Research Reveals: High Risks with Recycled Plastics

Plastic pollution is a major problem for the planet. However, recycling does not always solve these issues – in fact, it can sometimes exacerbate them.

Researchers at the University of Gothenburg have examined pellets of recycled plastic from various locations worldwide, reports TT. They immersed the plastic pellets in water for 48 hours before exposing fish larvae to the water for five days.

The study revealed that the pellets contained large amounts of toxic chemicals, some of which are endocrine disruptors. Despite the relatively short exposure time, changes in the larvae related to the hormonal system and obesity were observed.

– We knew there were chemicals in the plastics. But we didn't know how much would leach into the water, how long it would take, or how it would affect the fish, says Bethany Carney Almroth, professor at the University of Gothenburg and lead researcher of the project.

"Needs Improvement"

A total of 84 chemicals were detected in the water.

The concentrations were relatively low, and not many substances reached toxic levels individually. However, the sum and mixture were toxic.

One issue with plastic is that its contents are rarely disclosed. During recycling, chemical additives and potentially toxic substances can be transferred to new products. Bethany Carney Almroth sees the difficulty in knowing which chemicals the plastic may contain as the biggest problem with plastic recycling.

She argues that most plastics are not designed to be recycled.

– The industry has known about this for a long time but has still communicated externally that recycling would be a solution.

She believes that recycling is a way to tackle the major problems with plastic - but not in the way it is currently done.

– We must do it better, she says.