EFFECTS OF PLASTIC POLLUTION ON HUMAN

Abstract

Plastic pollution, accumulation in the environment of synthetic plastic products to the point 
where they create problems for wildlife and their habitats as well as for human populations. 
In 1907 the invention of Bakelite brought about a revolution in materials by introducing truly 
synthetic plastic resins into world commerce. By the end of the 20th century, however, 
plastics were found to be persistent polluters of many environmental niches, from Mount 
Everest to the bottom of the sea. Whether being mistaken for food by animals, flooding lowlying areas by clogging drainage systems, or simply causing significant aesthetic blight, 
plastics have attracted increasing attention as a large-scale pollutant. There are different types 
of ways that plastic is dangerous for humans. Direct toxicity from plastics comes from lead, 
cadmium, and mercury. These toxins have also been found in many fish in the ocean, which 
is very dangerous for humans. Diethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) contained in some plastics, is 
a toxic carcinogen. Other toxins in plastics are directly linked to cancers, birth defects, 
immune system problems, and childhood developmental issues. To learn more on effects of 
plastics on humans visit the Ecology Center
Other types of toxic plastics are BPA or health-bisphenol-A, along with phthalates 
(mentioned above). Both of these are of great concern to human health. BPA is used in many 
things including plastic bottles and food packaging materials. Over time the polymer chains 
of BPA break down, and can enter the human body in many ways from drinking 
contaminated water to eating a fish that is exposed to the broken down toxins. Specifically, 
BPA is a known chemical that interferes with human hormonal function.
Rolf Halden, associate professor in the School of Sustainable Engineering and Arizona State
University has studied plastics adverse effects on humans and has thus far concluded that and 
exact outline of health effects of plastics on humans is almost impossible to determine. This 
is due to the fact that the problem of plastic contamination in humans is globally spread; there 
are almost no unexposed subjects. That being said, it is evident that the chemicals are not 
healthy for humans.