Endocrine-disrupting chemicals found in everyday plastics are a leading cause of male infertility and “subtle deformities” in development, according to environmental health experts.
Tuaran District Office in Sabah, Malaysia, invited stakeholders to help develop policies to reduce plastic use, alongside zero waste experts from the Philippines.
What do you think about these stories? Is there one we missed? Let us know in the comments!
Every month we round up the top stories from the world of plastic pollution – and the work being done to stop it. From aquatic pollution to zero waste, you’ll always be up to date with the latest research, trends and greenwashing tactics.
California alone shipped 7,260 metric tonnes of plastic trash to the SE Asian country in 2024 – campaigners hope the state will now find a way to deal with it at home, rather than dumping it in a different country.
Korean authorities seized dozens of plastic umbrellas, coats and boots sold on AliExpress and Temu, which also contained dangerous levels of lead and formaldehyde.
What do you think about these stories? Is there one we missed? Let us know in the comments!
Every month we round up the top stories from the world of plastic pollution – and the work being done to stop it. From aquatic pollution to zero waste, you’ll always be up to date with the latest research, trends and greenwashing tactics.
Microplastics are escalating into a financial and legal nightmare for businesses, forcing insurers to deal with potential health claims, environmental damages, and greenwashing lawsuits.
Swiss newspaper “20 Minutes” shares Trash Hero’s perspective on littering and why it is just one piece of the much larger crisis of waste and pollution.
What do you think about these stories? Is there one we missed? Let us know in the comments!
Every month we round up the top stories from the world of plastic pollution – and the work being done to stop it. From aquatic pollution to zero waste, you’ll always be up to date with the latest research, trends and greenwashing tactics.
Study finds starch-based plastics cause organ damage and endocrine disruption in the same way as petroleum-based plastics, despire being marketed as natural, safe and ecofriendly.
A deep-dive into the history of “forever chemicals”, explaining how industry lobbying and cover-ups mean they are now in every corner of our lives.
What do you think about these stories? Is there one we missed? Let us know in the comments!
Every month we round up the top stories from the world of plastic pollution – and the work being done to stop it. From aquatic pollution to zero waste, you’ll always be up to date with the latest research, trends and greenwashing tactics.
A new investigation joins the dots between controversial Texas shale gas, the petrochemicals industry and plastics made for companies such as Coca-Cola, Unilever and Nestle.
Particles in follicular fluid (which enables egg development) point to a strong link between plastic and infertility and other reproductive health issues.
Study says drop over the last decade may be due to greater public awareness, but more work must be done upstream.
What do you think about these stories? Is there one we missed? Let us know in the comments!
Every month we round up the top stories from the world of plastic pollution – and the work being done to stop it. From aquatic pollution to zero waste, you’ll always be up to date with the latest research, trends and greenwashing tactics.
What image comes to mind when you picture a successful, busy character in a TV show? For many, it’s someone striding into an office, mobile phone in one hand and a disposable coffee cup in the other. This image of success and power has been reinforced by decades of TV and film. Think of Miranda Priestly in The Devil Wears Prada: a high-powered woman whose assistant fetches her very specific coffee order every day in a single-use cup. This is just one example of how props function as symbols of character and status. A throwaway lifestyle signifies success, but is this the right message to be sending audiences? And in general, given what we now know about its impact, should single-use plastic be presented on screen as a positive – or even neutral – part of society?
Media’s role in normalising behaviour
“We are shaped and formed by what we watch”- Diana Cohen, Co-founder and CEO of the Plastic Pollution Coalition (PPC).
The media has the power to normalise or demonise behaviours. Characters become popular because people relate to them, idolise them and want to be like them. Take smoking: once a symbol of the “cool” character (e.g. Danny Zuko in Grease), its use on screen shifted with growing awareness of health impacts. Regulations limited its presence, and depictions changed. Broadly speaking, it became a symbol of weakness, struggle or villainy.
How is plastic portrayed on screen? A 2021 PPC study found that 93% of plastic shown in a sample of popular TV and films from 2019-2020 was not disposed of on screen. Of the 7% that was disposed of, 80% was littered. This gives the audience two messages:
That plastic simply “disappears”.
Irresponsible disposal, like littering, is acceptable.
Since then, knowledge about plastic’s impact on our planet, climate and health has grown massively and the public’s attitudes towards plastic have also shifted. It’s clear TV and film producers need to catch up. Let’s look at some recent popular TV shows and how they have, or haven’t, addressed single-use plastic.
Direct references to reuse culture
Hacks (2021-present) uses the age gap between young writer Ava and veteran comedian Deborah to discuss a variety of environmental issues. In early episodes, Ava chastises Deborah for always getting single-use plastic cups for fizzy drinks and persuades her to get a reusable cup instead. In “One Day” (season three, episode five), Deborah initially dismisses climate change: “the Earth is a billion years old. It just self-corrects from any damage that’s done to it…Trust me, we’re fine”. Ava gradually educates her, and in the closing scene, Deborah reprimands her makeup artists for using plastic. These conversations are not clunky or forced. As The Hollywood Reporter notes, the show seamlessly integrates “deeply felt activist stances” without sacrificing comedy.
Quietly sustainable: the power of visual cues
Of course, reuse doesn’t have to be talked about directly by the characters to have an impact. By simply showing reuse in action, Shrinking (2023 – present) and Abbott Elementary (2021- present) make it feel natural and commonplace. In Apple TV’s Shrinking, Gaby’s “emotional support water bottle” is a recurring feature, but its environmental impact is not explicitly mentioned. Instead, the characters discuss how hydrated Gaby is, and she uses it as a way to bond with one of her colleagues.
Planet-friendly behaviour is seen regularly in Disney’s Abbot Elementary. The teachers all have reusable coffee cups, the staff car share or walk to events, and there is a school garden project. While some single-use items are still present on screen, in general, sustainable choices are the default option without making any particular fuss about it. Having popular, likeable characters associated with reuse sends a powerful message to audiences.
In comparison, Only Murders in the Building (2021 – present), like most shows, missed an opportunity to show reuse as a standard option. The Disney show centres around a friendship between Charles and Oliver, in their 70s, and Mabel, in her early 30s. They frequently use disposable coffee cups and cutlery. Like in Hacks, the writers could have used the age gap to spark conversations about reuse. For example, Mabel could carry a reusable coffee cup while Oliver and Charles take single-use – the outdated option. Or they could have had characters of all ages using reusable cups and cutlery – normalising the behaviour across generations.
Perhaps in the future we might even see whole reuse systems in action in popular TV shows and movies?
Behind the scenes
Who can forget the famous Starbucks coffee cup left on set in Game of Thrones? The TV and film industry is known for waste. A typical 60-day shoot uses 39,000 single-use water bottles. On top of that, large quantities of disposable plastic plates, utensils and coffee cups are used every day on set. Quinta Brunson, creator, writer and star of Abbott Elementary, has been open about the need for change in the industry. She is leading by example, providing reusable water bottles for everyone on her set. Lucia Aniello, showrunner for Hacks, also supports sustainability. She worked with the studio to reduce waste by eliminating plastic water bottles on set and having characters repeat outfits. Changes we want to see on screen should be mirrored by changes off screen.
What needs to happen?
Given the well-documented health and environmental harms of plastics, the way they are portrayed on screen needs to be addressed. Producers should consider their depiction with the same responsibility now applied to tobacco and alcohol. If they acknowledged their duty it would undoubtedly help to make sustainable behaviours more mainstream. It would also reflect the attitudes of growing numbers in their audiences who are concerned about single-use plastics.
As viewers, we should be aware of how single-use plastic is portrayed on screen. The Begley-Cohen Test, developed by the PPC, encourages the critical evaluation of single-use plastic in the media.
To pass the test, the following criteria must be met:
No single-use plastics appear on the screen
If single-use plastic does appear on the screen, it is portrayed or discussed as problematic
Try it on the next thing you watch and share your findings! The stories we see on screen can be shaped by pressure from the people who watch them. Films and TV shows are both a reflection and an important driver of aspirations. And what better goal to have than a world free from plastic pollution?
The growing problem of plastic pollution, which includes contributions from Switzerland, makes the transition to a circular economy an urgent priority. Therefore, a coalition of 10 Swiss non-governmental organisations (NGOs), including Trash Hero World, is calling for an ambitious overhaul of beverage packaging regulations. In a joint statement to the Federal Council on 6 March 2025, these organisations called on Switzerland to live up to its pioneering role and implement strong, binding measures based on international best practices and the latest independent science.
The statement said it is high time for Switzerland to put its words into action when it comes to the circular economy. Compared to the European Union and other pioneers, Switzerland still has a long way to go. A circular economy requires a significant reduction in plastic production and the widespread introduction of reuse systems, otherwise, the problem of plastic pollution will continue to worsen. The current situation also poses a risk to public health: plastics and the toxic chemicals they contain are contaminating the environment, food, and even the human body, as countless scientific studies worldwide demonstrate.
Four demands to break the plastics deadlock
Avoid or, at the very least, reduce plastic pollution at the source: Binding reduction targets and comprehensive monitoring of measures, ban unnecessary and toxic plastics, and promote reuse.
End greenwashing and ensure complete transparency: Mandatory disclosure of packaging ingredients, full traceability of plastics, and a ban on misleading claims of alleged environmental friendliness.
Significant investments in reusable packaging and the circular economy: Development of a large-scale reuse infrastructure, financed at least in part through extended producer responsibility (EPR).
Protection of public health: Strict ban on hazardous substances in all plastics, including recycled materials.
These demands were set out in detail in a joint statement submitted to the Federal Council.
Why act now?
Excessive production: More than one million tonnes of plastic are produced in Switzerland each year, a significant portion of which is incinerated or pollutes the environment.
Ubiquity of microplastics: These particles have been detected in Swiss drinking water, air, and soil. Some substances have even been detected in the human body (blood, lungs, breast milk, testicles, brain cells, etc.).
International momentum: The European Union is taking ambitious measures to reduce plastic pollution; Switzerland must not only keep pace but also be ambitious. Those who declare themselves to be international leaders must set a good example.
Public support: According to a recent survey, over 80% of the Swiss population supports strict measures against plastic pollution.
Statements from the signatory NGOs
Roman Peter, President of Trash Hero World
“People have a right to know what’s in their packaging. Plastic contains toxins that migrate into food and expose families to numerous health risks. We need full disclosure, clear labeling, and a ban on the worst offenders to protect public health.”
Fabienne McLellan, Executive Director of OceanCare
“The increasing production of virgin plastic and the excessive consumption of plastic, including in Switzerland, contribute to the waste of global resources and environmental pollution. If Switzerland wants to make an international contribution to combating the flood of plastic, it must also start with itself and set a good example. The circular economy can make an important contribution here if we are willing to take further measures and admit that plastic is only partially recyclable. We cannot avoid tackling problematic plastics and plastic products. The Beverage Packaging Ordinance offers Switzerland the opportunity to demonstrate internationally that it is following up on its diplomatic commitment.”
Joëlle Hérin, Consumer and Circular Economy Expert – Greenpeace Switzerland
“Scientists are increasingly concerned about the presence of microplastics in the human body, as well as our exposure to the problematic chemicals they contain. If the federal government cares about our health, it is essential to expand reuse, eliminate unnecessary single-use packaging and products, and ban hazardous substances in plastics.”
Global context: a golden opportunity
International negotiations for a legally binding global treaty against plastic pollution are underway. Switzerland will play a central role by hosting the fifth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-5.2), scheduled to take place from 5 – 14 August 2025, at the Palais des Nations in Geneva. This session will be preceded by regional consultations on 4 August 2025. Switzerland is also a candidate to host the future secretariat of this international treaty. In this context, it would be inconsistent for Switzerland to maintain outdated and inadequate plastic regulations. The NGOs therefore call on the Federal Council to revise the beverage packaging ordinance to give a strong signal: a signal from a country that is taking the lead in the global fight against plastic pollution.
Microplastics have been found to hinder plant photosynthesis, causing crop yields to fall by 4 – 14%. Scientists warn that 400 million people potentially face starvation in the next two decades as a result. The research highlights the need for urgent action to increase global food security.
Blood analysis of baby birds has discovered neurological damage resembling ALS and Alzheimer’s, as well as multiple organ failure. Scientists have linked the findings to the chicks’ substantial plastic ingestion: one bird had been fed over 400 pieces of plastic by its parents.
Indonesia has banned plastic waste imports, following the lead of Thailand earlier this year. While campaigners welcome the move, they also highlight enforcement concerns, loopholes and potential for greenwashing. Many also fear repercussions for nearby nations like Malaysia and Myanmar, whose plastic waste imports will inevitably increase.
According to new research, just 36 fossil fuel firms are responsible for 50% of the world’s carbon emissions. Increasing production at a time when most countries are setting targets to reduce emissions is reckless, says the report, and has led to record-breaking global warming.
The International Day of Zero Waste was marked on 30 March. The UN campaign put a spotlight on fast fashion and textile waste. This article goes in depth to expose the industry’s toxic impact, its destructive practices, and its role in fueling rampant overconsumption.
What do you think about these stories? Is there one we missed? Let us know in the comments!
Every month we round up the top stories from the world of plastic pollution – and the work being done to stop it. From aquatic pollution to zero waste, you’ll always be up to date with the latest research, trends and greenwashing tactics.
Scientists have warned of the hazards of BPA since 2011. It’s linked to cancer, neurobehavioural problems and diabetes. In 2017 it was banned from products designed for babies and infants. This year, the European Union have banned it from plastic that comes into contact with food and drink.
The leading cause of death worldwide? Corporations. Their manipulation of science and regulation has led to an increase in chronic illnesses, including cancer, heart disease, and metabolic disorders. This makes them the leading cause of death, surpassing infectious diseases. Scientists have launched a new center to study this now-leading disease risk factor.
Soaring energy prices are forcing households in Asia, Africa, and Latin America to turn to a cheaper, far more toxic fuel source: plastic. The harmful toxins released when being burned can cause untold damage to their health, especially women and children.
In December last year, negotiations of the Global Plastics Treaty came to a halt when an agreement couldn’t be reached. Talks will start again later this year, and there are many ways it could go. These options include a strong, legally binding treaty, or discussions being taken outside of the UN.
What do you think about these stories? Is there one we missed? Let us know in the comments!
Every month we round up the top stories from the world of plastic pollution – and the work being done to stop it. From aquatic pollution to zero waste, you’ll always be up to date with the latest research, trends and greenwashing tactics.
“Modern couches are basically blocks of gasoline“. The LA fires tragically highlighted the devastating consequences of plastic-filled modern homes. Plastic’s high flammability caused the fires to spread rapidly while also emitting toxic smoke. Firefighters warned that the air was a “poisonous soup,” making it too risky for them to remain in the area.
A few years ago, the German city of Tübingen introduced a tax on disposable packaging. Fast food giant McDonald’s challenged the tax, ultimately taking the case to Germany’s highest court. This month, the court ruled the tax legal, paving the way for other towns to implement similar measures.
Researchers at Oxford University have discovered that microplastics can increase the spread of antibiotic resistance by up to 200 times. These tiny plastic particles act as platforms for bacteria to exchange resistance genes, while also triggering bacterial stress responses that further promote this transfer, thus worsening the global antibiotic resistance crisis.
Not one but two separate stories celebrate how Malaysia’s zero-waste movement is gaining popularity. One on the Asia News Network and one on The Star. Growing awareness of waste issues is fueling renewed interest from both consumers and businesses. While challenges remain, such as limited product choices and the time commitment required for refills, many believe government support and policy changes will be key to wider adoption.
Trash Hero Kuching have been featured in Borneo’s largest English news site! Chapter Leader Ishak shared their achievements so far and their hopes for the future.
What do you think about these stories? Is there one we missed? Let us know in the comments!
Every month we round up the top stories from the world of plastic pollution – and the work being done to stop it. From aquatic pollution to zero waste, you’ll always be up to date with the latest research, trends and greenwashing tactics.
Lydia30 January 2025 : the month’s most important stories
This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Cookie settingsACCEPT
Privacy & Cookies Policy
Privacy Overview
This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are as essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience.
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.