One million tonnes of plastic additives leak into oceans each year – research

 

One million tons of plastic additives leak into oceans each year, according to new research.

A report, from Swiss research organisation EA Earth Action, published on Thursday analysed the scale of pollution caused by chemicals added to plastics during their manufacturing process.

It found that 116 kilotons – one thousand tons – of plastic additives in the sea come from packaging.

The research also suggests that everyday items such as textiles and vehicle tyres contribute to the leakage in the ocean of around 37 and 35 kilotons a year respectively.

EA Earth Action said that the vast majority of additives are untested, unregulated and have been linked to a range of health concerns including obesity, fertility issues and cancer.

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