Plastic pollution is one of the most pressing environmental and health crises of our time. Yet, instead of addressing the issue, U.S. President Donald Trump has signed an executive order reversing the federal ban on plastic straws, arguing that paper alternatives are ineffective. (Read more on AP News)
This move undermines global efforts to reduce plastic waste and sends a harmful message that prioritizes convenience over sustainability. While the discussion around paper vs. plastic straws continues, the real issue is the excessive use of single-use plastics altogether.
At Kungul, we firmly stand against plastic pollution. While we agree that paper straws are not an ideal alternative due to toxic glues and increased CO₂ emissions, bringing back plastic straws is not the solution. The real answer lies in eliminating unnecessary plastics entirely.
So, Mister President, here is why plastic is a disaster—for the planet and for human health.
How Plastic Enters Our Bodies
Plastic is now part of our daily consumption. A study in Environmental Science & Technology estimated that people who regularly consume seafood ingest thousands of plastic particles per year. Fish, mussels, and other marine life absorb microplastics from polluted oceans, which then end up on our plates. (Read the study here)
Bottled water is another major source of contamination. Research by Orb Media found that 93% of bottled water samples contained microplastics, with some bottles containing up to 240,000 plastic particles per liter. Even tap water isn’t safe, as studies have detected plastic fibers in drinking water supplies worldwide. Microplastics have also been found in table salt, beer, and even fresh produce due to contamination from soil and air. (Read the study)
We are inhaling plastic every day. A study published in Science of The Total Environment confirmed that microplastics are present in indoor and outdoor air, especially in cities. Synthetic clothing, carpets, furniture, and household items constantly shed tiny plastic particles that float in the air and settle as dust. (Study link)
The Hidden Dangers of Microplastics in Everyday Life
Clothing and Microfiber Shedding
Most modern clothing contains plastic. Fabrics like polyester, nylon, acrylic, and spandex release thousands of microplastic fibers every time they are washed. A single load of laundry can shed up to 700,000 microfibers, which are too small for water treatment plants to filter out. These fibers end up in rivers, oceans, and our food chain.
Even just wearing synthetic fabrics can expose us to plastic. Tiny fibers break off from our clothes and can be inhaled or absorbed through the skin. This is why choosing natural fibers like organic cotton, wool, hemp, and linen is crucial for reducing exposure. (Study on microplastics in textiles)
Personal Care Products & Phthalates
Many personal care products contain plastic, even if you don’t see it. Fragrances in perfumes, deodorants, and lotions often contain phthalates, a group of plastic-based chemicals used to make scents last longer. Phthalates are endocrine disruptors, meaning they interfere with hormones and have been linked to reproductive problems, early puberty, and developmental disorders. (Read more about phthalates)
Toothbrushes & Dental Floss
Toothbrushes and dental floss also contain plastic. Most toothbrush bristles are made of nylon, and many brands of dental floss are coated with plastic-based chemicals to make them slide more easily between teeth. Switching to bamboo toothbrushes and natural silk floss can help reduce your plastic intake.
Food Packaging & BPA Exposure
One of the biggest sources of plastic exposure is food packaging. Most plastic containers and wraps contain bisphenol A (BPA) or its substitutes BPS and BPF, all of which are known endocrine disruptors. BPA mimics estrogen in the body and has been linked to infertility, breast cancer, and metabolic disorders. (Study on BPA)
Many products are now labeled “BPA-free”, but this is often misleading. Manufacturers replace BPA with BPS and BPF, which are just as harmful but less regulated. This greenwashing tactic tricks consumers into believing they are choosing a safer product when, in reality, they are still being exposed to toxic chemicals.
Plastic wrap is another hidden danger. Most plastic films used for food storage contain phthalates, which can leach into food, especially when exposed to heat. Never microwave food in plastic containers or wrap, as heat accelerates the release of harmful chemicals into your meal.
Health Risks of Plastic in the Human Body
Plastic exposure has been linked to:
- Hormonal Disruptions – Phthalates and bisphenols interfere with the endocrine system, leading to fertility problems, thyroid issues, and metabolic disorders.
- Cancer Risk – Studies suggest long-term exposure to plastic chemicals increases the risk of breast, prostate, and other hormone-related cancers.
- Neurological & Developmental Disorders – Plastic chemicals have been linked to lower IQ levels, ADHD, and developmental issues in children.
- Heart Disease & Obesity – Research suggests that BPA and phthalates can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and obesity. (Microplastics & human health)
What Can You Do? Reduce Your Plastic Exposure!
- Use glass or stainless steel water bottles instead of plastic.
- Store food in glass, stainless steel, or beeswax wraps instead of plastic containers or plastic wrap.
- Buy fresh, unpackaged food whenever possible.
- Avoid canned food, as most cans are lined with plastic coatings that contain bisphenols.
- Wear organic cotton, wool, linen, or hemp instead of synthetic fabrics.
- Use a Guppyfriend bag or microfiber filter when washing synthetic clothes.
- Choose bamboo toothbrushes & natural silk floss over plastic-based versions.
Join the Fight Against Plastic Pollution
Reducing plastic waste requires global action. Greenpeace is leading the movement to end plastic pollution and push for a plastic-free future. Take action today by signing their petition and supporting policies that reduce plastic waste.
📢 Sign the petition here 👉 Let’s End the Age of Plastic
At Kungul, we are committed to empowering consumers with knowledge about harmful ingredients and providing safer alternatives for a healthier life. Follow us for more insights and start making better choices today! 🌱
