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.

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.

Trump has increased the import tax on aluminium by 25%. In response, Coca-Cola told investors they would “put emphasis on PET [plastic] bottles” to protect their profits. This is one of several pieces of legislation from the administration that will impact plastic production.

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.

“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.

Thai authorities have banned plastic waste imports from the new year, setting a strong precedent for other SE Asian nations to follow. Campaigners have welcomed the move, even though it still leaves loopholes that allows Thailand to be used as a transit country for hazardous plastic destined for neighbouring states

If anyone is still in doubt about the link between plastic and climate breakdown, this US federal government report released in 2024 (and summarised more simply by GAIA) shows the devastating effects of plastic production on global warming. The modelling shows plastic alone could consume the planet’s entire carbon budget by 2060, even if all other industries miraculously decarbonised.

Among many, many stories about corporate greenwashing, this story of ExxonMobil’s lies about recycling stood out for the sheer scale of the deception. To add to their woes, Exxon and other plastics producers are now facing a new court case brought by a group of American citizens for similar reasons. If successful, this could open the door to a much bigger class action suit.

In June, researchers released a map of the world that estimated microplastic exposure for citizens of different countries. It revealed which people were consuming the most – and why. Where did your country come?

It was sad news for bees, who were found to be consuming plastic, as well as bringing it into their hives. This is causing damage both to them and the wider ecosystem.

Last but not least, there was some good news from the plastics treaty talks. Yes, nothing was agreed, but this means everything is still on the table – and the countries championing strong measures to curb production and harmful chemicals are getting louder and better organised. Watch this space for updates as we go into 2025!

The nonprofit Alliance to End Plastic Waste has been called a “Bond-style villain” of greenwashing and political manipulation in a new report. Members include oil giants ExxonMobil, Shell and TotalEnergies, who produce millions more tons of plastic than they collect.

An Alliance to End Plastic Wasteproject in Bali was found abandonedafter its initial launch, with broken equipment and inadequate financing. It is still promoted on their website as a project designed to be “economically self-sufficient” and making a “positive contribution” to waste management on the island.

Just a few months ago, the US said it would support cuts in plastic production. In what environmentalists are calling an “absolutely devastating” policy reversal, the Biden administration backtracked on their promise just ahead of the UN plastics treaty talks.

This year’s climate talks, COP29, took place in Baku, Azerbaijan. The discussions focused on finance. Although a deal was struck, the support that developing countries will receive to face devastating climate impacts is a “paltry” sum. This article highlights five key takeaways from the meeting.

“Clean-ups are effective in the short run but don’t address the systemic issues,” says Zurainee Kula, chapter leader of Trash Hero Kota Kinabalu, in this interview with the Daily Express about the best ways to take action on waste.

A new study has shown bees are eating nano- and microplastics and using them to build nests. The plastic damages their digestive and immune systems. It also causes behavioural changes that prevent pollination and lead to ecosystem damage.

A BBC investigation has found burning household rubbish to make energy is the dirtiest way to produce power, just after coal. Incineration releases significant greenhouse gases, especially when burning plastic. Experts warn this “waste-to-energy” undermines climate goals and contributes to air pollution..

Microplastic exposure from leave-on cosmetics like eye shadow and lipstick has been flagged as an area of serious concern. Scientists are calling for more research into the health impacts of prolonged skin contact with these common products and their petrochemical-based ingredients.

In the UK it’s common to drop off soft plastics at supermarkets for recycling. But a recent investigation that tracked their journey revealed that 70% ended up being burned abroad, mostly in Türkiye. A damning report from the Environmental Investigation Agency reveals this was not an isolated incident.

A recent study has shown that the majority of plastic food packaging across Europe can be replaced or eliminated altogether. The finding supports the calls for reusable packaging infrastructure that would reduce waste and the unhealthy reliance on plastic.

ExxonMobil is being taken to court for misleading the public about the effectiveness of recycling. The state of California says the oil giant’s false claims have lead directly to an increase in plastic pollution. Environmental groups praised the lawsuit, saying it would hold the industry accountable.

A Swiss study has found more than 3,600 chemicals used in food packaging inside the human body, including BPA and PFAS. These chemicals can migrate from packaging into food and may have long-term health impacts. The study highlights the need for more research into their migration and health effects.

At New York Climate Week, researchers called for the world to focus on the role of plastics in global warming. This editorial argues that leaving plastic production out of any agreed fossil fuel phase down is a huge and dangerous loophole – but one that could be addressed in the new Global Plastics Treaty.

K-pop activist group K4P protested outside Hybe’s headquarters, calling for the company to stop campaigns encouraging fans to buy multiple physical copies of albums and other plastic merchandise. A survey found 42.8% of K-Pop fans considered Hybe’s marketing tactics as the “worst business practice”. 

Volunteers in Bengaluru are helping their local temples to go zero waste. The initiative promotes waste segregation, composting, and reducing single-use plastic in the offerings and involves both temple staff and visitors.

In a closed-door briefing, the White House signalled support for capping plastic production. No official announcement has been made, but industry groups have made clear they oppose the change. The shift sparks optimism for a more proactive approach to plastic pollution.

New studies reveal microplastics have infiltrated human brains, raising serious health concerns. Researchers urge global action to address plastic pollution as evidence mounts of its harmful effects on various organs. While the full extent of health risks is unclear, studies link microplastics to inflammation, cardiovascular issues, and fertility problems.

A recent study found a link between exposure to BPA, a chemical commonly used in plastic packaging, and increased autism risk in young boys. The study examined BPA levels in pregnant mothers and tracked their children’s development. The researchers found that higher BPA exposure was associated with a suppressed enzyme crucial for brain development. Leading to a greater likelihood of autism diagnosis.

Evian bottled water contains microplastics and BPA, contradicting its claims of sustainability and health benefits. The lawsuit seeks to stop parent company Danone from misleading consumers and raise awareness about the environmental and health impacts of plastic pollution.

This article highlights the lack of transparency in “mass balance” accounting for recycled plastic. While companies can claim products contain recycled plastic, the system doesn’t guarantee a specific amount, making it difficult for consumers to know the true content of products they purchase.

Over 100 elite athletes have signed an open letter to Coca-Cola and PepsiCo, urging them to use the Paris 2024 Olympics as a launchpad to increase reusable packaging and reduce single-use plastic. They highlighted the impact of plastic pollution on the environment and athletes’ health.

Shell has quietly abandoned their pledge to increase “advanced recycling” of plastic due to market challenges and regulatory uncertainty. Critics argue this technology is ineffective and polluting. Shell continues expanding plastic production.

The global apparel industry is a major source of plastic pollution, with over 20 million tons of plastic waste generated in 2019. Synthetic clothing is the biggest culprit, but plastic packaging and waste management issues also contribute to the problem. This overlooked source of pollution is getting worse, highlighting the need for industry changes.

Germany, known for recycling, is trying to revive reusable packaging. Small shops offer products in refillable containers, but logistical challenges remain. Store owners believe it needs to be more convenient for people to reduce waste.

Plastic pollution is a growing crisis fueled by companies prioritising profits over environmental responsibility. This interview with Trash Hero Co-founder Roman Peter reveals the devastating impact of plastic waste, from littering to health risks, while exposing the recycling industry’s deceptive practices. He asks for a systemic shift towards reusable packaging and reduced plastic production. This Swiss article can be translated into English.