Blog of Shaleen Wanjiru, SI Representative to the UN in Nairobi

Plastic pollution is a pervasive and escalating crisis that impacts every aspect of our lives. Its detrimental effects on health and the environment are particularly pronounced among vulnerable groups, including children, women, and informal workers. Recently, I had the privilege of attending an insightful webinar organised by the Children and Youth Major Group to UNEP (CYMG), International Pollutants Elimination Network (IPEN), Global Centre for Good Governance in Tobacco Control (GGTC), and Health Care Without Harm. This event shed light on the crucial need to incorporate health perspectives into the global fight against plastic pollution.

One of the most compelling presentations was delivered by Dr. Mega, a technical officer from the World Health Organisation (WHO). She emphasised that the health sector itself is a significant contributor to plastic waste. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated this issue, with an estimated 87,000 tons of personal protective equipment procured but not used, creating substantial environmental and health risks. Dr. Mega called for a sectoral approach to minimise the use of non-essential plastics in healthcare, underscoring the need for innovation and sustainable practices within the industry.

The webinar highlighted several critical points:

1. Health Impacts on Vulnerable Groups: Plastic pollution disproportionately affects children, women, and informal workers. These groups are more susceptible to the harmful effects of plastic waste, from exposure to toxic chemicals to environmental degradation.
2. Global Health Sector’s Role: The health sector is responsible for approximately 4.4% of global greenhouse gas emissions, making it a significant player in the plastic pollution crisis. The WHO’s participation in the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) process aims to ensure that health and environmental risks are adequately addressed in the treaty.
3. Policy and Advocacy: It is essential to advocate for the highest attainable standard of human and environmental health as a core objective of the plastic pollution treaty. A blanket exemption for medical use of plastics is not a viable solution; instead, a nuanced, sectoral approach is necessary to balance health needs and environmental sustainability.

Health Risks of Plastics to Women and Children

Plastic pollution poses significant health risks to children, with far-reaching consequences for their well-being. Children are particularly vulnerable due to their developing immune and nervous systems, and their behaviours like hand-to-mouth activity increase the risk of ingesting microplastics and associated toxicants. Exposure to toxic chemicals found in plastics, such as phthalates and bisphenol A (BPA), can disrupt endocrine functions, leading to developmental and reproductive issues. Studies have linked these chemicals to neurodevelopmental problems, obesity, and asthma in children.

For women, the impact of plastic pollution is equally concerning. Chemicals in plastics can interfere with hormonal functions, impacting reproductive health. Women exposed to high levels of these chemicals may face increased risks of infertility, complications during pregnancy, and adverse birth outcomes. Additionally, some studies suggest a correlation between prolonged exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals in plastics and an elevated risk of breast cancer. The presence of BPA, in particular, has been a significant concern due to its estrogen-mimicking properties.

 

Statistics on Plastic Pollution and Health

The scale of plastic pollution and its impact on health is staggering, as evidenced by alarming statistics. Global plastic production exceeds 300 million tons annually, with half designed for single-use purposes. Shockingly, only 9% of all plastic waste ever produced has been recycled. The health impact costs are equally concerning, with a study by the Center for International Environmental Law (CIEL) projecting that plastic production and incineration could result in health-related costs amounting to over $250 billion annually by 2025.

The pollution of our oceans is particularly troubling. An estimated 8 million tons of plastic waste enter the oceans each year, posing significant risks to marine life and human health. The pervasiveness of microplastics is evident in our drinking water, with studies finding microplastics in 94% of tap water samples in the United States and 82.4% in India. These statistics underscore the urgent need for action to address plastic pollution and its far-reaching health consequences.

Recommendations and Actions

To advance intergenerational well-being and health in the face of plastic pollution, several key actions can be taken. These initiatives span advocacy, education, collaboration, and support for innovation, all aimed at fostering a healthier and more sustainable future.

Advocating for Health-Centric Policies

There is a pressing need to advocate for the integration of health risk assessments at every stage of the plastic life cycle in both national and international policies. Reducing

the health impacts of plastic pollution requires aligning with global health organisations’ recommendations, such as the WHO’s stance on minimising the use of non-essential plastics in healthcare settings. By doing so, health risks and environmental impacts can be mitigated more effectively.

Promoting Awareness and Education

Raising public awareness about the health effects of plastic pollution is essential, particularly for vulnerable groups who may face greater risks. Comprehensive awareness campaigns can help communities better understand the dangers posed by plastic pollutants. Educational programs and workshops play a crucial role in equipping the public with knowledge about sustainable practices, plastic reduction, and proper disposal methods, thus fostering responsible behaviour and long-term change.

Collaborating with Stakeholders

Building strong partnerships with relevant organisations is vital to amplifying advocacy efforts. Collaboration with policymakers is particularly important to ensure health considerations are incorporated into negotiations and the implementation of policies, such as those related to plastic pollution treaties. By working together with key stakeholders, collective efforts can make a broader impact.

Supporting Innovation and Research

Research and innovation are key to finding sustainable alternatives to plastics, particularly in sectors like healthcare where plastic usage is prevalent. Supporting research initiatives that focus on alternative materials and eco-friendly practices can significantly reduce plastic waste. Moreover, promoting and investing in innovative projects aimed at reducing plastic usage can help shift industries towards more sustainable models, benefiting both human health and the environment.

Conclusion

The global plastic pollution crisis continues to grow, posing significant threats to both human health and the environment, particularly for vulnerable populations like children and women.

Our advocacy, education, and collaboration can drive meaningful change, protecting the health of our communities and the environment for future generations. Together, we can advance intergenerational well-being and health against plastic pollution, ensuring a healthier and more sustainable world for all.