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.

People consume microplastics through food and air. Recent studies have shown that the amount varies depending on your location. This microplastics map reveals which countries are consuming the most.

Baltimore takes legal action against plastic manufacturers, arguing they are responsible for plastic pollution harming the city’s environment and public health.  Baltimore joins a growing movement holding plastic companies accountable for pollution and its health consequences.

The EU has warned that other countries’ delays are endangering the global plastics treaty. The key sticking point is whether to set targets to reduce plastic production. A small group of countries want to limit the agreement to addressing plastic pollution, while others want to include reducing plastic production and consumption.

Unveiling the smoke and mirrors of pyrolysis, this article exposes how the plastic recycling industry inflates recycled content figures. While touted as a magic bullet, pyrolysis reduces new plastic production by a tiny per cent. The journalist dives into the calculations creating a misleading perception of its effectiveness.

Vanuatu used to have a big plastic pollution problem, but after community pressure for action, the government banned single-use plastics. While there is still work to be done, it has made a big difference.  

A new study found microplastics in all human and dog testes tested. This may be linked to declining sperm counts in men.The research is in its early stages, but it adds to evidence of widespread microplastic contamination and potential health risks.

A new study reveals a strong link between plastic production and plastic pollution. Every 1% increase in production leads to a 1% rise in pollution.  The Coca-Cola Company is the top polluter, responsible for 11% of branded plastic waste. The study calls for reduced plastic production and stronger regulations on corporations.

Single-use plastic sachets are a major environmental problem in Southeast Asia. They are cheap and popular, but difficult to recycle and often end up in landfills or waterways. A first of it’s kind study, co-produced by Trash Hero Indonesia and members of Break Free From Plastic, dives into who is responsible for this waste.

Shein products, including children’s shoes, had toxic chemicals hundreds of times above safety limits. South Korea is requesting removal of these items and inspections show nearly half of tested Shein products contain harmful substances.

A lawyer predicts a wave of lawsuits against PFAS, a toxic chemical used in plastic, manufacturers due to potential health risks. PFAS are “forever chemicals” are linked to cancer and other health problems. The legal battle is expected to be massive, potentially exceeding asbestos litigation.

In an attempt to cut costs, Unilever weakens its commitments to sustainability, reducing plastic use targets and living wage goals. Critics slam the move while the CEO defends it as a shift in focus, not a retreat from responsibility.

A new report confirms that plastics play a bigger role in climate change than flying. They release four times as many climate-warming emissions, the equivalent of 600 coal plants (about three times the number that exists in the US). Environmental groups want to see reduced plastic production, while the plastics industry believes recycling can solve the problem.

A UN-backed global plastics treaty is being negotiated to reduce plastic pollution. Countries and corporations dependent on fossil fuels are hindering the treaty’s progress with lobbying and delaying tactics—proposed solutions include requiring conflict of interest reporting and separating scientific discussions from industry discussions.

A new study reveals that plastic pollution harms ocean embryos, disrupting their development and potentially affecting entire ecosystems. Even common plastic types like PVC can be harmful when broken down, releasing chemicals that interfere with cell processes.

Southeast Asia has become the dumping ground for plastic waste from developed countries, especially after China banned plastic imports in 2018. This has overwhelmed the region’s ability to manage its own waste, causing environmental damage and health problems. This article discusses efforts to regulate plastic waste trade and calls for stricter enforcement.

Activists take to the streets to call for a global plastics treaty that cuts plastic production, prioritises human rights, and addresses plastic pollution’s lifecycle, not just recycling. They want a strong treaty that protects communities and workers.

A huge new survey reveals a shocking 16,000 chemicals are used in plastics, with over 4,200 deemed hazardous. Worryingly, only a fraction are regulated, leaving thousands potentially harming our health and the environment.

Shareholder activism is driving positive change. Investor groups are working directly with companies like Disney and Hormel, encouraging them to set goals and report on reductions in plastic packaging. This approach has already led to commitments to cut plastic use and improve recyclability. While there’s still a long way to go to address plastic pollution entirely, shareholder activism is a promising step.

A study found people with microplastics in their blood vessels were nearly 5 times more likely to suffer heart attack, stroke or death. While more research is needed, it suggests plastic pollution might damage blood vessels and contribute to heart problems.

Global warming and plastic pollution are worsening each other. As the temperature rises, plastics break down faster, requiring more plastic production. This increases greenhouse gas emissions and traps more heat, accelerating global warming. The article calls for solutions throughout the plastic lifecycle to address both problems.

A report reveals US plastic factories, despite harming communities and violating pollution permits, receive massive government subsidies. These taxpayer dollars often outweigh environmental regulations, raising concerns for public health and fairness.