Scientists have connected exposure to relatively low amounts of bisphenol A (BPA)[ a chemical used in plastics] to various health issues, including cancer, decreased immunological function, early onset of puberty, obesity, diabetes and hyperactivity. Regular incineration of medical waste containing PVC and phthalates [ a chemical added to plastics ] raise public health issues due to the release of dioxins and mercury. Long-term exposure can lead to cancer, congenital impairments, hormonal abnormalities, decreased sperm counts, infertility, and immune damage.
What are the alternatives to such plastics?
The ban on single-use plastic will harbour innovation, specifically for plant-based rapid biodegradable products. Similarly, bio-based plastics or bioplastics are becoming increasingly prevalent. Bioplastics are manufactured in whole or in part from biological resources. We can use bamboo, paper, or metal straws to replace plastic straws. Further, we can pro mote edible straws such as pasta straws or rice straws. We can :
Encourage reusable water bottles and tap water to replace bottled water.
Promote bamboo or another reusable and edible cutlery.
Replace plastic shopping bags with reusable cloth bags.
Attach balloons with strings/holders.
Promote a smoking ban. Until then, cigarette buds should have biodegradable cigarettes and filters.
Natural fibres can be used for sponges and dish rags with scrubbers.
Replace plastic cotton buds with bam boo or paper cotton buds that are disposable or go for reusable cotton buds.
Use washable cloth diapers, diapers without plastic and biodegradable wet wipes.
decreased immunological function, early onset of puberty, obesity, diabetes and hyperactivity. Regular incineration of medical waste containing PVC and phthalates [ a chemical added to plastics ] raise public health issues due to the release of dioxins and mercury. Long-term exposure can lead to cancer, congenital impairments, hormonal abnormalities, decreased sperm counts, infertility, and immune damage.
