Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Black Plastic
Why in the News?
A recent study suggested that black plastic contains harmful flame retardants, which may leach into food at hazardous levels.
What is Black Plastic?
- Black plastic is often made from recycled electronic waste like old computers, TVs, and appliances.
- These electronics contain flame retardants (such as bromine-based compounds), heavy metals (lead, cadmium, mercury), and other hazardous chemicals.
- Flame retardants are added to prevent fire hazards, but they can persist in recycled plastics.
- Many of these chemicals are now banned in several countries due to their toxicity.
- However, legacy plastics containing these substances continue to enter the recycling stream, leading to contamination of household products.
Threats Posed by Black Plastic:
- Contains Toxic Chemicals: Made from recycled e-waste, it may have flame retardants, heavy metals, and antimony.
- Food Contamination: Heat and acidic foods can leach harmful chemicals into meals.
- Environmental Impact: Difficult to recycle, it pollutes landfills and groundwater.
- Health Risks: Linked to hormonal issues, neurological damage, and cancer.
PYQ:[2019] Why is there a great concern about the ‘microbeads’ that are released into environment? (a) They are considered harmful to marine ecosystems. (b) They are considered to cause skin cancer in children. (c) They are small enough to be absorbed by crop plants in irrigated fields. (d) They are often found to be used as food adulterants. |
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