April 22, 2024 - Planet vs. Plastics

April 22, 2024

Monday, April 22, is Earth Day. This year’s theme is Planet vs. Plastics, raising awareness of the health risks of this prolific material and calling for the phasing out of all single-use plastics.

Though more research is needed, mounting evidence suggests plastics and microplastics pose serious health risks to humans, with babies and infants being especially vulnerable. The reasons are laid out in an alarming Earth Day report titled Babies vs. Plastics:

• Infants ingest up to 10 times more microplastics and microfibers than adults due to crawling, teething and a tendency to taste inanimate objects. Studies suggest that babies and children may intake or inhale microplastics from various sources, including plastic toys, clothing, furniture and soft “crumb tire” materials in playgrounds.

• Scientific evidence indicates that microplastics accumulate within major organs, including the brain, over time.

• Researchers have discovered microplastics in the human placenta, exposing babies to foreign chemicals at the earliest stages.

• Higher rates of miscarriage and male infertility have been linked to microplastics and their additive chemicals.

• Microplastics have been found in dairy and breast milk, raising concerns about potential exposure through these essential nutrition sources.

• Indoor air quality carries more microplastics than outdoor air, intensifying babies’ exposure, as they spend most of their time indoors.

Now, more than ever, communities need to combat the proliferation of plastic pollution in our ecosystems. Find out more by visiting earthday. org.