Discovery of Numerous Pharmaceuticals, Hazardous Chemicals in Reprocessed Plastic Materials.

Recycled plastics, often championed as an environmentally conscious choice, face a critical reevaluation, according to a recent study led by researchers at the University of Gothenburg in Sweden. Examining recycled plastic pellets from 13 countries across Eastern Europe, Asia, Africa, and South America, the study unveiled a concerning array of over 491 potentially harmful organic compounds. Pesticides topped the list with 162 chemical compounds, followed by 89 pharmaceuticals and 65 industrial chemicals.

The study highlights that these chemicals originate from various stages, including plastic manufacturing, recycling processes, and adsorption. Prof. Bethanie Carney Almroth emphasizes that despite being touted as a solution to plastic pollution, recycled plastics may not be suitable for most applications, disrupting the envisioned circular material lifecycle.

The researchers underscore a lack of monitoring programs for recycled plastics and the minimal international regulation covering just 1% of plastic chemicals. They advocate urgently phasing out harmful additives, identifying and limiting non-intentionally added substances, and establishing policies for reporting chemicals in the recycling process. The team insists on implementing regulations specifying appropriate uses for recycled plastics, particularly in sensitive areas like toys and food packaging.

Source: New Atlas - Heaps of pharmaceuticals, toxic chemicals found in recycled plastics