Plafera Challenge

Worrying Discovery: Microplastics Found in Swordfish Stomachs in the Western Mediterranean A recent groundbreaking study, led by researchers from the University of Barcelona, the Institute of Marine Sciences (ICM, CSIC), and the Spanish Institute of Oceanography (IEO, CSIC), has revealed alarming evidence of microplastics in the stomachs of swordfish (Xiphias gladius) in the western Mediterranean. This discovery, published in Marine Pollution Bulletin, highlights the growing threat of plastic pollution to marine life, with 80% of the swordfish sampled showing the presence of microplastics, including polyethylene terephthalate (PET), commonly used in everyday items like bottles and bags. The study, which analyzed swordfish caught between 2011-2012 and 2017-2019, underscores the urgent need to reduce plastic pollution to safeguard not only the marine ecosystem but also human health, as these pollutants can enter the food chain. Researchers Joan Navarro (ICM, CSIC) and Joan Giménez (IEO, CSIC) emphasize that swordfish, as large pelagic predators with opportunistic feeding habits, serve as key indicators of environmental changes in marine ecosystems. Odei Garcia Garin, a researcher from the University of Barcelona, stressed the importance of the findings for conservation efforts, noting that swordfish dietary shifts could influence future microplastic ingestion rates. The study also opens the door for further research on the toxic effects of microplastics on marine species and the transfer of these pollutants through the food web. This research offers a critical baseline for future studies aimed at protecting marine life and developing strategies to combat plastic pollution. Plafera Challenge urges everyone to take action and adopt small, everyday habits that keep single-use plastics out of landfills and reduce the environmental risks, including urban flooding, linked to plastic waste. For more research and updates, follow us @PlaferaChallenge and join the movement to fight plastic pollution. Together, we can make the world a cleaner, safer place! Photo credit: University of Barcelona Read more: Torresi, Marco et al. “Microplastic characterization in the stomachs of swordfish (Xiphias gladius) from the western Mediterranean Sea”. Marine Pollution Bulletin, July 2024. DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116767 - https://lnkd.in/d2-eTgjK #PlasticPollution #Microplastics #SaveOurOceans #MarineConservation #Swordfish #SustainableLiving #EcoAwareness #ReducePlasticWaste #CleanSeas #EnvironmentalAction #PlaferaChallenge #FightPlasticPollution #ProtectMarineLife #PlasticFreeFuture #CircularEconomy

Microplastics Found in 85% of Faeces from Wild Animals in Hong Kong: Study Report by Greenpeace In a groundbreaking study, Greenpeace, working alongside researchers from universities in Hong Kong and Taiwan, has discovered alarming levels of microplastics in 85% of faecal samples collected from wild animals across Hong Kong's countryside. Between June and August 2022, the team analysed 100 samples from buffalo, cattle, boars, macaques, and porcupines, revealing the far-reaching impact of plastic pollution on wildlife. Across seven sampling sites, including Cheung Sha on Lantau Island and Kam Shan in Kowloon, the study uncovered a total of 2,503 pieces of microplastic. The highest concentration was found in cattle faeces from Cheung Sha, with a median of 65.5 particles per gram, while macaques in Kam Shan showed the lowest concentration at 0.2 particles per gram. Predominantly, the microplastics found were polyethylene and polypropylene—commonly used in single-use packaging and disposable utensils. “This study shows that pollution from single-use plastics is not just an urban problem but has expanded to our countryside, affecting wildlife,” said Leanne Tam Wing-lam, a Greenpeace campaigner. These findings echo the global concerns about the pervasive impact of plastic waste on ecosystems and highlight the urgent need for comprehensive measures to reduce plastic usage. Christelle Not, a senior lecturer at the The University of Hong Kong, explained that microplastics are formed when larger plastic items degrade over time. She pointed out that the concentration levels found in Hong Kong’s wildlife are higher than in similar studies conducted in countries like Thailand and the United States. The long-term effects of microplastic ingestion on animals remain unclear, but existing research indicates severe risks, including starvation caused by false satiety and the release of toxic chemicals into the body. This study comes on the heels of Hong Kong's new single-use plastics ban, which began its first phase in April. Greenpeace urges further efforts from the government, including setting clear timelines for expanded bans and funding initiatives for reusable containers in food services. “It’s crucial to prevent plastics from entering our ecosystem in the first place,” Tam stressed. This critical study serves as a wake-up call for more research and swift action against plastic pollution. As @PlaferaChallenge, we urge Nigerians and people everywhere to take part in this fight by adopting small, daily actions that reduce the use of single-use plastics and protect our environment. Photo credit and Source: South China Morning Post SCMP Follow @PlaferaChallenge today and join the movement for a cleaner, safer world! #PlaferaChallenge #EndPlasticPollution #Microplastics #PlasticFreeFuture #WildlifeConservation #SustainableLiving #GreenPlanet #ReducePlasticWaste #SaveOurOceans #CircularEconomy #FightPlasticPollution

I just shared an insightful article on how the manufacturing sector is a major contributor to waste and what steps are being taken to reduce plastic pollution. Discover how manufacturers are rethinking packaging, reducing single-use plastics, and managing food and hazardous waste to create a more sustainable future. 🌍 We can all play a role in the fight against plastic pollution by adopting small, everyday actions that keep plastics out of landfills and reduce the risk of environmental hazards like urban flooding. Check out the full article and learn how you can be part of the change! #PlaferaChallenge #PlasticPollution #SustainableManufacturing #FightPlasticWaste #WasteReduction #CircularEconomy #SaveOurPlanet #UrbanFlooding

Microplastics: The Hidden Hormone Disruptors Behind Weight Gain and Obesity! Did you know the tiny particles scattered throughout our food, water, and even the air we breathe—microplastics—could be fueling weight gain? These seemingly harmless bits of plastic may be silently affecting your body by mimicking key hormones like cortisol and estrogen, and this disruption can lead to obesity! Research led by Christopher C. Thompson, MD MSc FASGE FACG AGAF, at Harvard Medical School reveals how microplastics act as hormone disruptors. These microplastics not only invade our bloodstream but can also mimic cortisol, a hormone that regulates blood sugar and inflammation. When cortisol levels spike, the body tends to accumulate fat around the midsection, face, and neck, triggering weight gain and even conditions like Cushing's syndrome. Imagine your body constantly producing excess cortisol, but instead of stress causing it, it’s the plastic in your environment! Angel Nadal, PhD, a professor of physiology at Universidad Miguel Hernández de Elche University in Spain, also highlights how the prevalence of microplastics in ultra-processed foods like chips, cookies, and hot dogs further damages metabolism. Ultra-processed foods already strain our systems, and the added hormone-disrupting microplastics intensify the risk of obesity and other metabolic disorders. This alarming research suggests that microplastics are difficult to measure and monitor. But scientists like Andrew West, PhD, from Duke University are pushing for new ways to track their concentration in our environment. With microplastics becoming more prevalent in our daily lives, understanding their long-term effects on health has become crucial. Want to reduce your exposure to microplastics? Experts recommend simple everyday actions: * Avoid microwaving food in plastic containers. * Stick to whole foods that aren’t packaged in plastic. * Limit the use of plastic water bottles and utensils. It's time to take action! While further research is urgently needed, you can already take small steps in your daily life to reduce plastic use and its harmful effects. Join us at @PlaferaChallenge in the fight against plastic pollution. Every action—no matter how small—helps keep single-use plastics out of landfills and prevent them from polluting the environment or contributing to urban flooding. 👉 Together, we can make a difference! 🌍 Photo Credit: Plafera Challenge Read more: https://lnkd.in/dH7MUYqk #PlaferaChallenge #MicroplasticPollution #PlasticFreeLifestyle #ReducePlasticWaste #HealthAndEnvironment #HormoneDisruptors #FightPlasticPollution #SustainableLiving #EcoFriendlyChoices #EndPlasticPollution #GreenLifestyle #ProtectOurPlanet #SayNoToPlastics #UrbanFlooding #PlasticFreeNigeria #SaveTheEnvironment #HealthyLiving

🌍Lagos, Nigeria Leads the World in Plastic Pollution: New Study Unveils Shocking Findings According to a groundbreaking study from the University of Leeds, Lagos, Nigeria, produces the highest amount of plastic pollution globally, contributing significantly to the 57 million tonnes of plastic waste generated annually. More than two-thirds of this pollution comes from uncollected waste and open burning, with the Global South identified as the largest contributor. The study, published in Nature Portfolio, modeled waste management across 50,000 municipalities worldwide, providing a first-ever global plastics pollution inventory. The report shows that 52 million metric tons of plastic entered the environment in 2020—enough to circle the Earth over 1,500 times. Lead researcher Dr. Costas Velis stresses that access to proper waste collection services should be seen as a human right, as the lack of such services leads to severe environmental and health risks. Lagos stands at the forefront of this crisis, with open burning contributing to nearly 57% of plastic pollution, posing significant dangers to human health. Policymakers must act swiftly to address the global plastic crisis by prioritizing waste collection, resource recovery, and circular economy solutions. Follow @PlaferaChallenge and join the fight against plastic pollution by taking everyday actions to reduce single-use plastics and protect the environment from the worsening effects of urban flooding. For more information, see the original study: Costas Velis, A Local-to-Global Emissions Inventory of Macroplastic Pollution, Nature (2024). https://lnkd.in/gVqyynBC Image Source: Science X Network. #PlasticPollution #WasteManagement #Sustainability #CircularEconomy #PlaferaChallenge #Lagos #ClimateAction Government of Nigeria Federal Ministry of Environment, Nigeria NESREA Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency Waste Management Society of Nigeria (WAMASON), Lagos Council NES LAGOS ISLAND CHAPTER Lagos State Government

🌍 The World Produces 57 Million Tons of Plastic Pollution Annually – New Study Reveals Plastic pollution continues to infiltrate every corner of the Earth, from oceans to mountaintops—and even into our bodies. A new study shows the world generates 57 million tons of plastic pollution each year, with two-thirds coming from the Global South. Uncollected waste and open burning are major sources of this crisis, impacting 1.2 billion people without waste management services. Researchers from the University of Leeds created the first global plastics pollution inventory, revealing India, followed by Nigeria and Indonesia, as the top contributors. The study highlights the health risks, including neurodevelopmental and reproductive defects from open burning. Lead researcher Dr. Costas Velis stresses the need for waste collection as a human right, and the call for a global Plastics Treaty to combat this growing issue. With Sub-Saharan Africa at risk of becoming a major plastic pollution hotspot, urgent action is needed to implement waste management systems and adopt a circular economy. For further insights, check out the full study in Nature: Costas Velis, "A Local-to-Global Emissions Inventory of Macroplastic Pollution" (2024). https://lnkd.in/gVqyynBC #PlasticPollution #Sustainability #WasteManagement #CircularEconomy #GlobalSouth #ClimateAction #PlasticCrisis #Research #EnvironmentalProtection #PlasticsTreaty #Innovation #Impact #PlaferaChallenge Image Sources: Science X Network

🌍 Exciting New Resource for WA Retailers: Find Compliant Single-Use Plastic Alternatives! 🌱 At Plafera Challenge, we're thrilled to share that a powerful new tool is now available to help Western Australian food and beverage retailers, community groups, and local governments transition to sustainable practices! This innovative resource, created by the BoomerangAlliance and supported by the State Government, is a game-changer in the fight against plastic pollution. The Plastic Ban Solution Finder Database (bansolutionfinder.org) is designed to simplify the process of finding products that comply with WA’s strict Plan for Plastics regulations. Whether you're a retailer, supplier, or community leader, this tool will guide you to the right alternatives, ensuring you're part of the solution towards a circular economy. 🎯 Why It Matters: Transition Made Easy: With the Boomerang Alliance’s database, finding compliant alternatives is now just a click away. This resource supports WA’s goal of saving an additional 700 million plastic items from landfill or litter annually. Sustainable Future: The database not only helps businesses adapt but also propels WA closer to a sustainable, plastic-free future. We urge all suppliers to submit their products for assessment and inclusion in this invaluable resource, ensuring a broad range of compliant options for everyone. 📢 Join Us in the Fight Against Plastic Pollution! Follow @PlaferaChallenge and take small, everyday actions that keep single-use plastics out of landfills and reduce the risk of environmental pollution and urban flooding. Together, we can make our world a better place! Photo Credit: Plafera Challenge. 🔗 Learn More: New Website Helps Businesses Find Single-Use Plastic Alternatives - https://lnkd.in/d85G_GdD #PlaferaChallenge #PlasticFreeWA #SustainableFuture #BoomerangAlliance #SayNoToPlastics #CircularEconomy #EcoFriendly #JoinTheChallenge

South Australia's Bold Step: New Plastic Bans You Need to Know Government of South Australia continues to set the pace in the global fight against plastic pollution with the latest phase of its pioneering initiative to eliminate single-use plastics. As of 1 September 2024, several new items will be banned from sale, supply, or distribution across the state. Here’s what you need to know: What's Banned: * Thin plastic barrier bags for fruits, vegetables, nuts, and confectionery. * Thick plastic shopping bags and plastic laminated paper shopping bags. * Single-use plastic beverage containers, including coffee cups and lids. * Single-use plastic food containers for 'ready-to-eat' food. * Expanded polystyrene (EPS) containers and trays. * Plastic food bag tags, confetti, balloon sticks, and ties. This decisive action follows the historic Single-use and Other Plastic Products (Waste Avoidance) Act 2020, which marked Australia’s first legislation aimed at phasing out single-use plastics. The journey began in March 2021, with bans on plastic straws, cutlery, and stirrers, and has since expanded to include a wide range of items. Why It Matters: The impact of single-use plastics is devastating, with an estimated 29 million metric tonnes of plastic set to enter our oceans by 2040. This pollution endangers over 1,500 species, including sea turtles, penguins, and dolphins, leading to malnutrition, entanglement, and death. By moving away from single-use plastics, South Australia is not just protecting its local environment but contributing to a global solution. Sustainable Alternatives: Residents are encouraged to bring their own reusable bags, cups, and containers when shopping. For those caught short, certified compostable bioplastic items are available and can be disposed of in green organics bins for composting. This shift is part of South Australia’s broader commitment to a circular economy, crucial for a sustainable future. A Call to Action: As South Australia leads the charge, we all have a role to play in this global movement. Follow @PlaferaChallenge and join us in the fight against plastic pollution. Together, through small, everyday actions, we can keep single-use plastics out of landfills and protect our environment from the perils of plastic waste. This summary is based on research from the Government of South Australia. Photo credit goes to The Government of South Australia. #PlaferaChallenge #PlasticFree #EndPlasticPollution #SustainableFuture #CircularEconomy #BanSingleUsePlastics #EcoFriendly #GreenLiving #ZeroWaste #ProtectOurOceans #PlasticBan #ClimateAction #ReduceReuseRecycle #SaveThePlanet

🌍 Revolutionizing Plastic Recycling: UC Berkeley Scientists Develop a Groundbreaking Process to Recycle Plastics Indefinitely! 🌍 In an exciting development that could change the course of our fight against plastic pollution, researchers at the University of California, Berkeley, are pioneering a new process that allows plastics to be recycled indefinitely. This innovative approach could dramatically reduce the deluge of plastics overwhelming our landfills and clogging our oceans. From everyday items like sandwich bags and shampoo bottles to more durable goods like microwavable containers and luggage, plastics are an integral part of modern life. However, these same plastics have posed a significant challenge due to their resilience and the difficulty in recycling them efficiently. Traditional recycling methods often result in lower-quality plastics that eventually end up in landfills, adding to the growing environmental crisis. But now, a team of visionary scientists at UC Berkeley and Berkeley Lab, led by Professor Dr. John Hartwig and graduate student R.J. Conk, have devised a catalytic process that can break down the most common types of plastic waste—polyethylene and polypropylene—into their basic molecular building blocks. This innovative method not only vaporizes these plastics but also allows them to be repurposed into valuable new products, opening the door to a sustainable, circular economy for plastics. Dr. Hartwig shared his enthusiasm, saying, "We take this plastic that's a solid and perform chemical reactions on it, turning it into a gas." Conk, equally excited, added, "The chemistry we're able to do with waste plastic definitely opens up a new path for recycling." This groundbreaking research, published in the prestigious journal Science, shows promise in addressing one of the biggest environmental challenges of our time. By using catalysts like sodium and tungsten, the process is both energy-efficient and environmentally friendly, offering a real-world solution that could drastically cut down on the need for new plastics derived from fossil fuels— a major contributor to climate change. While this discovery has the potential to transform how we deal with plastic waste, the work is far from over. As we continue to explore and refine this technology, it is crucial that we all play our part in reducing plastic pollution. The Plafera Challenge urges everyone, especially Nigerians, to adopt small, everyday actions that keep single-use plastics out of landfills and prevent them from exacerbating urban flooding. Follow @PlaferaChallenge to stay updated on this and other initiatives, and join us in making a difference. Together, we can protect our environment and ensure a better future for generations to come! 📚 Source: CBS News #PlasticFreeFuture #RecycleRevolution #EndPlasticPollution #CircularEconomy #ZeroWaste #PlaferaChallenge #GreenTech #SustainableLiving #ProtectOurPlanet #GreenFuture

🚨 Shocking Discovery: Microplastics in Soda Bottles Multiply Each Time You Open Them! 🥤 A new report has uncovered a startling truth: every time you open a soda bottle, the number of microplastics inside increases! 😨 French NGO Agir pour l’environnement revealed that six different types of plastic particles were found in popular sodas like Coca-Cola and Schweppes. What’s even more alarming is that the more you open the bottle, the more microplastics you end up consuming! 🔬 Researchers conducted rigorous studies, opening the bottles once, 10 times, and 20 times to mimic real-life usage. The results? Shocking! After just one opening, 4.6 microplastic particles were found per liter of soda. But after 20 openings, the number skyrocketed to 62 particles in Schweppes alone! These tiny particles, some even smaller than 50 micrometers, could pose serious health risks as they interact with other particles and potentially human cells. The study raises urgent questions about the safety of our everyday beverages and the materials used in their packaging. Magali Leroy from Agir pour l’environnement emphasized the need for Coca-Cola and health authorities to ensure that consumers aren't unknowingly exposed to harmful plastics. With the potential health impacts of microplastic exposure still under investigation, it’s time to take action. As we await further research, let’s each do our part to combat plastic pollution. Join the Plafera Challenge and help keep single-use plastics out of our environment. Small, everyday actions can make a big difference in reducing plastic waste and preventing urban flooding. 💧 Follow @PlaferaChallenge and be part of the movement for a plastic-free rainy season! Together, we can make our world a better place. 🌍 🔗 Source: Euronews - https://lnkd.in/dTperA2n 📸 Photo Credit: Canva #PlaferaChallenge #PlasticFree #Microplastics #Soda #HealthRisks #EnvironmentalImpact #ReducePlasticWaste #UrbanFlooding #Sustainability #JoinTheChallenge