Our roundup of the month’s most important stories
Plastic-related health issues cost $250billion every year
Think plastic comes with just an environmental price tag? Think again. The Hill has reported that a staggering $250 billion is spent every year in the US alone on health issues linked to chemicals in plastic.
All your food now contains plastic!
This must-read report gives a clear and simple overview of all the different ways plastics end up in our food – from when it starts to grow to serving it up for dinner. It also examines what could be done to stop this happening.
Think your bottled water is pure? Think again
New research has revealed that the levels of plastic particles in bottled water are up to 100 times higher than previously believed. But that’s not the only reason to avoid it: these are the 12 worst bottled water brands when it comes to false advertising and ethical issues.
Pellets spill causes EU to rethink plastic pollution laws
After 26 tons of tiny plastic pellets were lost at sea last month, blanketing Spanish beaches, the EU is under pressure to take a hard look at how it regulates plastic transport – and who is responsible for leakages.
Thailand pushes back against flood of plastic waste imports
PBS News visited Thailand, to see how it’s coping with the influx of waste from the Global North. In this short video, we hear from a range of voices on the ground – including the former Environment Minister, who insists that Thailand cannot and should not be a dumping ground for wealthy countries.
Trash Hero Kota Kinabalu tackles waste with local community
The big beach and underwater cleanup recently organised by Trash Hero Kota Kinabalu was so impressive, it was featured in several Malay newspapers, who highlighted the community’s efforts and their 480kg haul of trash.
What do you think about these stories? Is there one we missed? Let us know in the comments!
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