A recent viewpoint in the journal Environmental Science & Technology (Vethaak, A.D, and H.A. Leslie, “Plastic Debris Is a Human Health Issue,” Environ. Sci. Technol., 2016, 50 (13), pp 6825–6826. DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.6b02569) suggests that persistent plastic debris may be an important health issue for humans. We’ve known for a long time that aquatic animals are vulnerable to plastic pollution, we’ve all seen photos of seals and turtles and other animals trapped by plastic rings. But our health may also be at risk.

The article’s authors identify three potential ways plastic debris may produce adverse effects on human health. First, particle toxicity, which concerns the interactions of the actual particle within our bodies. Very little is known about these interactions, but they might include oxidative stress, cell damage, and inflammation. Second, chemical toxicity, which refers to the effects of the chemicals that leach out of the plastic, including bisphenol A and phthalates. Third, plastic debris has been observed to contain pathogens and parasites. These particles may be providing good environments for pathogenic bacteria and when we ingest these micro-particles we may be ingesting these pathogens.

How do we ingest plastic debris? Possibly through seafood, drinking water, or even via the air. Yet another reason to work hard to reduce our use of plastic products. Avoid plastic packaging as much as possible, take your own shopping bags, and use your own water bottle.