U.S. National Toxicology Program publishes systematic review on exposure to PFOA and PFOS and immunotoxicity, concludes that both substances are presumed immune hazards to humans
Report focuses on plastics, EDCs, and health
Guide developed by Endocrine Society and International Pollutants Elimination Network (IPEN) informs public interest organizations and policy-makers about presence of endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in plastics; explains impacts of EDCs on human health, considers economic dimension
Mapping microplastics in the male reproductive system
Study provides an in-depth look at microplastics in the male reproductive system, analyzes human and mouse samples to chart concentrations and polymer types; finds microplastics in all human testes samples and majority of semen samples; larger plastic particles may get trapped in testis, leading to higher concentrations; identifies correlation between urbanization, home-cooked meals, and body scrub used to microplastics concentration
Microplastics, seafood and human health
Greenpeace UK releases report on microplastics in seafood; compiles most recent academic research; recommends banning mircobeads and generally applying precautionary principle
Many questions surround microplastics, what about micro(bio)plastics?
Literature review of micro- and nano(bio)plastics research; scrutinizes the complexities of micro- and nano(bio)plastics degradation and their toxicological effects; highlights gaps in long-term impact studies and interactions with environmental conditions; challenges the assumption that “biodegradable” means complete degradation; calls for greater transparency in research practices to bolster collective understanding
WHO report on microplastics in drinking water
Microplastics do not currently pose human health risk in drinking water according to World Health Organization; studies however seen as limited and often unreliable; calls for standardization of analysis methods and minimization of plastic pollution
Melamine’s effects beyond kidney
Scoping review identifies potential health effects of melamine other than renal damage, including impacts on neurological functions, behavior, reproduction, and growth
Wrestling with the externalities of the plastics supply chain
As the first meeting of the Intergovernmental Negotiation Committee of the UN Global Treaty to End Plastic Pollution approaches, publications highlight the diverse effects the plastics supply chain has on human health and the environment, particularly the burden on vulnerable communities
UNEP calls for integrated chemical management
UN Environment Assembly adopts resolutions on chemicals and waste, plastics debris and microplastics, and 14 other topics
UK recycling and waste management conference
Exhibition and conference on recycling and waste management to take place on September 12-13, 2018, in Birmingham, UK; focus on plastic waste problems