Black plastic items are a common sight in our daily lives, from kitchen utensils to food containers, clothing, and electronic equipment casing. However, what many people may not realize is that these black plastic items could potentially contain toxic brominated flame retardants, also known as BFRs. These harmful chemicals have been linked to a range of health issues, including cancer, nervous system problems, endocrine disruption, and reproductive and developmental issues.
A recent study published in the scientific journal Chemosphere found that 85% of black plastic consumer products tested contained BFRs. The concentrations of these flame retardants detected in the products ranged up to 22,800 mg per kilogram, with some items such as a sushi tray, spatula, and beaded necklace showing the highest levels. The study also identified the presence of the banned substance deca-BDE in plastic products at levels significantly higher than the European Union’s limit.
The concerning part is that many of these black plastic items come into direct contact with our mouths or food. For example, using black kitchen utensils could lead to exposure to significant amounts of BFRs on a daily basis. And it’s not just kitchen utensils – black plastic takeout containers, toys, clothing, hair accessories, office supplies, and electronic cases are all potential sources of exposure to these harmful chemicals.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency describes BFRs as one of the largest marketed flame retardant groups due to their efficiency and low cost. With over 75 different BFRs recognized in the commercial market, it’s clear that these chemicals are pervasive in our everyday items.
Studies have shown that exposure to BFRs can lead to a range of health issues, including cryptorchidism, thyroid hormone perturbations, reproductive issues, developmental issues, and even an increased risk of certain cancers. These chemicals can enter our bodies through direct contact with our mouths, touching contaminated items, or leaching into food, especially foods with higher fat content.
While it may be tempting to avoid black plastic items altogether, the reality is that BFRs are present in many everyday items. The upcoming Global Plastic Treaty negotiations in 2024 present an opportunity for countries to address the use of harmful plastics and their additives. It is crucial for governments to prioritize the health of their citizens over industry profits and take action to reduce exposure to toxic chemicals in everyday products. The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about major changes in the way we live our lives, with many countries implementing strict lockdown measures to curb the spread of the virus. As a result, businesses have had to adapt to new ways of operating in order to survive in these challenging times.
One of the industries that has been significantly impacted by the pandemic is the travel industry. With travel restrictions in place and people reluctant to travel due to health concerns, airlines, hotels, and tour operators have all seen a significant drop in bookings. Many airlines have had to cancel flights and lay off staff, while hotels have had to shut down or operate at reduced capacity.
Despite these challenges, the travel industry has shown resilience and adaptability in the face of adversity. Airlines have introduced new safety measures to reassure passengers, such as mandatory mask-wearing, enhanced cleaning procedures, and social distancing protocols. Some airlines have also implemented flexible booking policies to allow passengers to change or cancel their flights with minimal hassle.
Hotels have also made changes to their operations to ensure the safety of guests and staff. This includes increased cleaning and sanitization of rooms and public areas, contactless check-in and check-out processes, and reducing capacity in restaurants and common areas to allow for social distancing. Some hotels have even turned their rooms into temporary offices for people who need a quiet and private space to work remotely.
Tour operators have had to get creative in order to stay afloat during the pandemic. Many have shifted their focus to domestic tourism, offering local tours and experiences to cater to people who are not comfortable traveling abroad. Some tour operators have also started offering virtual tours and experiences, allowing people to explore destinations from the comfort of their own homes.
As the world slowly begins to recover from the pandemic, the travel industry is cautiously optimistic about the future. While it may take some time for travel to return to pre-pandemic levels, there is hope that with the rollout of vaccines and continued safety measures, people will once again feel comfortable traveling and exploring the world.
In the meantime, the travel industry will continue to adapt and innovate in order to meet the changing needs of travelers. Whether it’s through enhanced safety measures, flexible booking policies, or new and exciting travel experiences, the industry is determined to weather the storm and emerge stronger on the other side.
