Overview

• Researchers found that single pellets of recycled polyethylene released a complex mix of more than 80 chemicals into water within 48 hours of leaching tests
• Zebrafish larvae exposed to the leachate for five days showed marked increases in gene expression tied to lipid metabolism, adipogenesis and endocrine regulation
• Chemical profiling detected both common plastic additives such as UV-stabilizers and plasticizers and contaminants like pesticides, pharmaceuticals and biocides
• Lead investigators warn that undisclosed toxic substances in recycled plastics may pose risks to human reproductive health, child development and metabolic disorders
• The study bolsters calls for a ban on hazardous plastic additives and full transparency across recycling supply chains ahead of the Global Plastics Treaty