A recent study led by Toxic-Free Future and the Amsterdam Institute for Life and Environment has unveiled concerning findings about black plastic household items sold in the United States. The study, published in the journal Chemosphere, discovered that some of these items contain harmful flame retardants known as brominated flame retardants (BFRs). These chemicals, primarily used in plastic electronic components such as those inside televisions, cell phones, and computers, pose significant health risks.
The research marks the first time U.S. black plastic household items have been linked to flame retardants. According to the study, around 10% of these items likely contain BFRs. The presence of these chemicals is alarming due to their potential to cause carcinogenicity, endocrine disruption, neurotoxicity, and reproductive and developmental toxicity. Despite these findings, it is essential to note that only a minority of black plastic household items are suspected to contain flame retardants.
Megan Liu, the science and policy manager at Toxic-Free Future and a co-author of the study, emphasized the hazards posed by these chemicals. The study highlights the problematic nature of electronic recycling practices, which contribute to the contamination of black plastic with flame retardants. The authors suggest that recycled plastics can introduce toxic chemicals into products, raising concerns about the safety of using recycled materials in consumer goods.
The study's findings underscore the need for increased testing and regulation of products made with recycled plastics. Mike Schade, the director of Mind the Store at Toxic-Free Future, called on retailers and suppliers to take proactive measures in ensuring product safety. He urged them to conduct thorough testing of products that incorporate recycled plastics to prevent potential health hazards for consumers.
Leave a Reply