Study using perfused human placental tissue demonstrates polystyrene nanoplastics affect expression of inflammation and iron homeostasis-related genes; review summarizes that small plastic particles can enter reproductive organs and affect reproductive health, however further research needed to verify the results and assess mechanisms of reproductive toxicity
July 6, 2023
Canada’s recyclable paper exports to India contaminated with plastics, investigation finds
CBC reports about Canada’s paper exports; finds plastic contamination present poses environmental and social challenges to India; recycling infrastructure unable to keep up
July 5, 2023
ZWE examines aspects and challenges of sustainable packaging in three reports
Reports by Zero Waste Europe (ZWE) and partners examine decarbonization pathways of beverage containers, urge rethinking single-use glass and transition towards reuse, and investigates the economic viability of reusable food packaging
July 4, 2023
Studies suggest food packaging as exposure source to organophosphate esters
Two groups of scientists analyze occurrence and migration of organophosphate esters (OPEs) from hundreds of Chinese plastic and paper food packaging; one study reports higher concentration of OPEs in plastics and migration of 15 out of 23 targeted OPEs; another study identifies presence of 42 and migration of 26 OPEs and identifies seven new compounds
July 3, 2023
France to launch glass deposit system
French government has announced plans to establish glass deposit system; aims to phase out single-use plastics by 2040; incentivizes reusable glass with dedicated fund of 50 million Euro
June 29, 2023
Report highlights needs for reuse systems, consumer demand grows
Report by City to Sea presents requirements for implementing reuse systems in UK; says majority of consumers are receptive to using reusable packaging; Chartered Institution of Waste Management urges UK to take the lead in establishing reuse systems for a circular economy
June 26, 2023
FPF comments on US EPA draft plastics strategy
Food Packaging Forum (FPF) submits comment to US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on the draft national strategy to prevent plastic pollution; FPF highlights aspects of food packaging and chemical safety for EPA to consider; primarily (i) how the EPA may be able to support reuse, (ii) encouraging ratification of the Basel Convention; (iii) clarifying “compostable” and “inert”; strategy comment period extended to July 31, 2023
June 23, 2023
World Health Assembly adopts resolution on chemicals, waste, and pollution
Resolution calls on World Health Organization Member States to increase work on potential human health impacts of plastics, links between chemical exposures, and health; recognizes people are exposed to many chemicals but majority have not been well studied
June 22, 2023
Netherlands add tax for plastic takeaway packaging
As of July 1, 2023, single-use plastic takeaway packaging requires additional price in the Netherlands; reusable alternative must be offered; usage of single-use plastic for dine-in guests banned as of January 1, 2024
June 21, 2023
10 EU Member States at risk of not reaching packaging waste recycling targets by 2025
European Environment Agency (EEA) reports on recycling targets; 10 Member States at risk of missing 65% packaging waste recycling rate by 2025; 19 members struggle to meet 50% plastic packaging recycling quota; upcoming packaging and packaging waste revision to include reuse and refill targets
