International Pollution Elimination Network (IPEN) finds 60% of sampled “BPA-free” plastic bottles and children’s cups from 8 countries contain bisphenol A (BPA); test 98 containers (23 “BPA-free”) from local markets in Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Russia, Sri Lanka, and Tanzania; Sri Lanka’s Environment Ministry says it will investigate
NGOs launch FCM policy brief, newsletter
Zero Waste Europe publishes policy brief reviewing hazardous chemicals in food packaging, proposing EU policy changes to address them; partners launch newsletter providing updates on key legislation and related food contact material (FCM) resources
Tritan® case continued: Bittner appeals
Magazine reports new details of Eastman Chemical vs. PlastiPure and CertiChem case, compares chemical industry tactics to big tobacco
Reports highlight reuse benefits and plastics recycling shortcomings
International Pollutants Elimination Network (IPEN) report details current recycling schemes; concludes waste management techniques not “capable of alleviating” the growing plastic pollution crisis; recommends government actions to reduce plastic production; Break Free From Plastic follows up on 215 packaging commitments from top plastic pollution producing companies: 18 projects with no information after press release, few projects lessen plastic production; Upstream compares single-use and reusable service ware for environmental impact and business cost, finds “reuse wins”
Bisphenol A and triclosan found in maternal urine
Maternal characteristics predicting elevated urinary concentrations of BPA and TCS act in opposite direction
Vision of future without plastic pollution
Global movement of 90 NGOs sets 10 principles to change society’s perception and use of plastics, aiming at a future free from plastic pollution
EEB priorities for upcoming EU chemical strategy
Non-governmental organization European Environmental Bureau (EEB) publishes position paper setting 8 priorities for upcoming EU Chemical Strategy for Sustainability; calls for revision of food contact materials legislation, creation of chemical substitution forums and technical support centers for small and medium sized businesses, ‘polluter pays’ tax
Opinion: Plastics recycling at risk
Banning POPs and SVHCs endangers plastics recycling and circular material flow, according to recycling company
Assessment of voluntary plastics pledges
EU Commission assesses voluntary pledges made by industry in response to EU strategy for plastics in circular economy; chemical recycling frequently mentioned but rarely included in the volumes of recycled plastic pledged; more information needed on chemicals in plastic waste
Commentary on chemical pollution calls for prioritizing health
Author describes the planet’s chemical legacy and emphasizes need for targeted global approach to contend with chemical pollution