MUSCAT: Experts have issued a stark warning that plastic pollution poses a grave and escalating threat to human health worldwide, costing the global economy an estimated $1.5 trillion annually. The newly released report emphasises that the dangers of plastic waste extend far beyond environmental degradation, reaching deeply into public health through exposure to toxic chemicals, microplastics, and contaminated water supplies. Researchers say that despite mounting evidence, the full scale of the risk remains under-recognised by policymakers and the general public, leaving substantial gaps in preparedness and response strategies. The report calls for urgent, coordinated international action to curb plastic production and promote safer waste management practices before irreversible harm is done.
One of the most alarming aspects highlighted by scientists is the pervasive presence of microplastics in food chains, water sources, and even the air we breathe. These tiny particles can carry hazardous chemicals and pathogens, potentially contributing to increased rates of cancer, reproductive disorders, neurological impairments, and immune system dysfunction. Vulnerable populations, including children and those living in regions with inadequate waste disposal systems, are believed to face the highest exposure. Researchers argue that current regulatory frameworks fail to address complex lifecycles of plastic products, resulting in persistent pollution that accumulates in landfills, oceans, soil, and the human body over time.
Another key concern raised by the report is the heavy reliance on fossil fuels for plastic production, which not only exacerbates climate change but also exposes communities near petrochemical facilities to toxic emissions. These facilities often release carcinogenic substances and fine particulate matter that impair respiratory function and increase cardiovascular disease risks. The economic burden associated with plastic-related health impacts is projected to rise sharply unless immediate measures are taken. Experts advocate for reductions in single-use plastics, stronger controls on industrial emissions, and the development of safer, biodegradable alternatives to conventional plastic materials to help mitigate these multifaceted threats.
To tackle this growing crisis, the report urges governments, industries, and international organisations to adopt a comprehensive, preventative approach. This includes implementing bans on unnecessary plastic products, investing in robust recycling and waste treatment infrastructure, and promoting public awareness campaigns about the health dangers of plastic pollution. Enhanced research into the long-term biological impacts of microplastic exposure, coupled with stricter chemical safety regulations, is essential to better protect global populations. Without decisive action, the authors warn that plastic pollution will continue to expand unchecked, jeopardising not only ecosystems but also the health and well-being of current and future generations.
