Fact Sheet on the Disposal of Plastics
Dangerous Health Effects of Home Burning of Plastics and Waste
21.10.2004
Most people who burn their plastic domestic waste do not realize how
harmful this practice is to their health and to the environment.
Current research indicates that backyard-burning of waste is far more
harmful to our health than previously thought. It can
increase the risk of heart disease, aggravate respiratory
ailments such as asthma and emphysema, and cause rashes, nausea,
or headaches, damages in the nervous system, kidney or liver, in the
reproductive and development system. The burning of polystyrene
polymers such as foam cups, meat trays, egg containers, yogurt
and deli containers releases styrene. Styrene gas can readily be
absorbed through the skin and lungs.
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the full Fact Sheet (pdf.)
