Research article in The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism measures phthalates and other endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in urine of 139 pregnant women, assesses occurrence of depression four months postpartum; finds detection of phthalates linked to low progesterone levels, association with depression
BPA absorption in the mouth
Scientists compare internal levels and metabolism of BPA after gavage or diet administration; demonstrate significant buccal absorption of BPA from solid foods
SEA of Solutions Week & Plasticity Conference
Opinions: Toxic chemicals in everyday products
Article in New York Times outlines the issue of exposure to toxic chemicals from common products and the consequences for human health
New material and packaging solutions for a circular economy
Ellen MacArthur Foundation reveals all winners of New Plastics Economy Innovations Prize; 11 innovators awarded for new recyclable and compostable material and packaging solutions
SEA of Solutions Week and Plasticity Conference
UN Environment hosts first annual conference week focusing on plastic pollution on November 11-15, 2019 in Bangkok, Thailand; themed days to focus on different discussion topics; event aims to become key exchange platform on the issue
Scientists detect microplastics in human veins, colon tissue, and urine
Small pilot study analyzes saphenous vein tissues from five individuals and detects 15 plastic particles/g tissue indicating transport of plastic particles within human tissue; review concludes more research needed to elucidate the potential carcinogenicity of micro- and nanoplastics; researchers find potential connection between colorectal cancer and microplastic exposure level; preliminary study report microplastic presence in four out of six urine samples 15 plastic particles/g of tissue
Individual-level data published for BPA oral absorption study
New study provides urine and serum profiles of BPA in 10 volunteers who participated in Teeguarden et al. (2015) study
Nanoparticles in food linked to cancer
Oral ingestion of titanium dioxide nanoparticles induces abnormal immune responses, preneoplastic lesions in the colon; scientists call for re-evaluation of risks from oral exposure to nanoparticles
Pew Charitable Trust report evaluates plastic pollution scenarios
Analysis calculates current commitments will only reduce plastic pollution flows into oceans by 7%; implementing all feasible solutions now could cut pollution by up to 78%; authors call for urgent and coordinated action by all stakeholders, redirecting all current and future investments away from virgin plastic infrastructure