The two most important substances to watch out for in plastics are bisphenol A (BPA), used in a variety of consumer products, and certain phthalates, often found in toys.

Microplastics and Lung Health Workers exposed to plastic fibers can have lung problems and reduced lung capacity, perhaps due to damage caused by inflammation⁸. Scientists also know that the chemicals that make up these plastics are toxic to humans at high enough concentrations.

Pollutants are present in the environment. When plastics end up in the environment, they can bind with these pollutants, including persistent organic toxins such as PCBs (Polychlorinated biphenyls) and dioxins, both of which are not only very resistant to degradation but can also accumulate in animal fats and tissues.

These act as endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), which are linked to infertility, obesity, diabetes, prostate or breast cancer, thyroid problems and increased risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke, among others.