An international team of researchers and experts has launched a major initiative to monitor the health effects of plastics, just ahead of the final negotiations for the world’s first global treaty on plastic regulation.
Introducing ‘The Lancet Countdown on Health and Plastics’
The initiative, titled The Lancet Countdown on Health and Plastics, coincides with the release of a Health Policy published in The Lancet journal. This document reviews existing evidence on how plastics — including microplastics and chemical components — impact human health.
Business Standard reports that the policy team includes members of the United Nations’ Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC), who are actively shaping the upcoming treaty.
Global Treaty to Regulate Plastics
The UN Global Plastics Treaty aims to create a legally binding framework to regulate plastics throughout their life cycle — from production and usage to disposal. The final round of treaty negotiations, known as INC 5.2, will take place from August 5 to 14, 2025, in Geneva, Switzerland. The first part of the session was held in Busan, South Korea, in late 2024.
Rising Plastic Production and Health Concerns
Experts highlighted alarming projections: plastic production could triple by 2060 if current trends continue. They emphasized that plastics pose health risks at every stage of their life cycle.
During production, plastics release fine particulate matter (PM2.5), sulphur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and other hazardous chemicals, exposing workers and communities to air pollution and toxic substances.
Microplastics Found in Human Tissues
Recent studies have detected microplastics in human brain and reproductive tissues, underlining their widespread presence in the body. Researchers noted consistent links between microplastics and increased risks of cardiovascular and neurological conditions, although more research is needed.
Call for Transparency and Precaution
The authors pointed to a critical gap in the transparency of plastic composition and toxicity. They stressed that, even with ongoing research, a precautionary approach is necessary to safeguard public health.
Plastic Waste and Environmental Hazards
Currently, nearly 60% of unmanaged plastic waste is burned in the open — a major contributor to air pollution, especially in low- and middle-income countries. Furthermore, plastic waste often creates breeding grounds for mosquitoes and harmful microbes. This increases the risk of vector-borne diseases and contributes to antimicrobial resistance.
Antimicrobial Resistance: A Growing Threat
The review warned that plastic-facilitated microbial growth could fuel antimicrobial resistance — where disease-causing organisms become immune to treatment. This trend could lead to longer hospital stays, higher medical costs, and increased pressure on already burdened healthcare systems.
Next Steps: Tracking the Impact of Plastics on Health
The newly launched Lancet Countdown will track key indicators on the health effects of plastics and associated chemicals. These indicators will cover all stages of the plastic life cycle. The team plans to publish its first report by mid-2026.
By launching this initiative, researchers aim to provide strong, evidence-based insights to guide global policy. Their goal is to protect human health from the escalating threat of plastic pollution.