The real cost of plastic

Ah, plastic packaging. Sure, it's marketed as the go-to material for packaging, seemingly perfect in its affordability. At a mere ~$1/kg, plastic is the epitome of modern convenience.

Yet, when we peel back the layers, we might face a different reality. We're talking about a material that raises some serious health concerns, and finally we're able to put some figures on this.

Let's dive into this paradox of plastic – affordable on the surface, but at what true cost?

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in plastics pose a serious threat to public health and cost the U.S. an estimated $250 billion in increased health care costs in 2018, according to new research published in the Journal of the Endocrine Society.

But let's pull back the curtain on this illusion of economy. As we delve deeper, we find that this 'bargain' comes with a price tag that's anything but small.

Hidden costs? Environmental nightmares? Health hazards? Oh, please, let's not be dramatic – it's just plastic, right? Spoiler alert: It's not.

And the real cost? Well, let's just say it's a lot more than €1/kg. Buckle up; we're about to explore the real cost of this 'inexpensive' material.

Overview of Hidden Costs

When we talk about the hidden costs of plastic, we're venturing into something that extends far beyond its production cost – it's about the environmental, health, and economic impacts that don’t show up on your receipt. Picture this: every piece of plastic has a hidden invoice for the planet.

1. The environmental toll. We're not just talking about unsightly litter. Plastic production and disposal are heavyweight contenders in the global pollution arena, impacting wildlife and ecosystems. These costs? Not on the label.
2. The human health aspect. Plastics play host to chemicals like bisphenol A and phthalates. Spoiler alert: they're not the good guys. Linked to various health issues, their costs are monumental – yet, they're not reflected in the selling price of plastic products.
3. The broader economic impact. The environmental and health costs of plastics translate into economic burdens. This includes healthcare costs, loss of productivity, and the cost of environmental clean-up and restoration efforts.

In sum, the true cost of plastic is a complex amalgamation of environmental, health, and economic factors – a cost far exceeding its perceived cheapness – and finally somebody put it together.

Here is the scoop from the "Journal of the Endocrine Society": actually plastics aren't just sitting in your kitchen but are, in fact, costing us big time in health and economics.

The article zeroes in on the hidden villains – 6 chemicals additives widely used in in plastics, like bisphenol A and phthalates.

It's not just about the plastic polymers; it's about these chemicals additives hitching a ride on our daily items, from water bottles to medical devices, and the hefty price tag they bring in healthcare costs and diseases!

It's the first time, as far as I know, that someone quantifies the real cost of what we're using every day. Think of it as a health bill hidden in plain sight, wrapped in plastic.

• Bisphenol A (BPA): Used in polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins. Examples include water bottles, food containers, and sports equipment.
• Di-2-ethylhexylphthalate (DEHP): Used as a plasticizer in PVC products. Found in shower curtains, vinyl flooring, and medical devices.
• Butyl Phthalates: Utilized as plasticizers in various plastic products. Present in cosmetics, toys, and food packaging.
• Benzyl Phthalates: Employed in a variety of plastic products. Used in automotive parts and household appliances.
• PBDE-47 (a type of PBDE): Used as a flame retardant in plastics. Common in electronics, furniture upholstery, and textiles.
• Perfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS): Used in non-stick, stain-resistant, and waterproof coatings. Seen in non-stick cookware, stain-resistant fabrics, and food packaging.

The actual cost of Plastic per kg

The actual cost of plastic in the United States for 2019 can be comprehensively understood by considering both the market and environmental costs:

1. Market Cost of Plastic: The direct market price is $1 per kilogram of plastic.
2. Environmental Cost: Beyond the market value, the environmental cost attributed to the production and consumption of plastic is significant. In 2019, this cost amounted to $250 billion for the 73 million metric tonnes of plastic, which translates to approximately $3.42 per kilogram.
3. Total Actual Cost: Combining these figures, the actual cost of plastic is the sum of its market price and its environmental impact cost. Therefore, for each kilogram of plastic, the total cost is $1 (market price) + $3.42 (environmental cost) = $4.42.

This structured breakdown shows that the real price of plastic is considerably more than its market value when environmental factors are taken into account. This higher cost reflects the broader impact of plastic production and use, emphasizing the need for sustainable practices and policies in the plastic and materials industry in general.

Broader Economic and Environmental Impact

The true costs of plastic extend far beyond its production and disposal, permeating various facets of our global society and environment.

1. Economic Impacts Beyond Health Costs:The ripple effect of plastic pollution impacts numerous sectors. In tourism, for instance, plastic litter can significantly deter tourism in affected areas, leading to substantial revenue losses. In fisheries, plastic contamination affects fish stocks and the quality of seafood, impacting livelihoods and food safety.Waste management systems are also financially strained, as they struggle to manage the ever-increasing volumes of plastic waste. This includes the cost of recycling programs, landfill management, and the development of new waste processing technologies.
2. Environmental Degradation and Ecosystem Damage:Plastic pollution contributes to significant ecological damage. In marine environments, plastics cause harm to a wide range of species, from microorganisms to large mammals, through ingestion and entanglement. This damage extends to coral reefs and other critical habitats, with long-term consequences for biodiversity and ecosystem health.On land, plastic waste disrupts terrestrial ecosystems and contributes to soil and water pollution, affecting both wildlife and human communities.
3. Societal and Ethical Considerations:Communities near plastic production facilities or major waste disposal sites often bear the brunt of pollution, facing health risks and environmental degradation. This raises significant social justice and ethical issues, as these burdens are disproportionately borne by marginalized and economically disadvantaged communities.The responsibility for plastic pollution is a complex issue, encompassing manufacturers, consumers, and policymakers. Ethical considerations come into play regarding the fair distribution of these responsibilities and the need for more equitable solutions.
4. Global Challenges and Solutions:Plastic pollution is a global challenge that requires international cooperation. Different countries have varying capabilities and resources to manage plastic waste, necessitating a collaborative approach to develop effective and equitable solutions.Innovation in sustainable materials, waste management technologies, and public policies is crucial. These include promoting alternatives to traditional plastics, improving recycling infrastructure, and implementing policies that encourage reduction in plastic use and increase corporate responsibility.

The journey through the real costs of plastic highlights a pressing need for change. Beyond its apparent affordability lies a landscape filled with environmental, health, and economic challenges. This revelation from the Journal of Endocrine Society is actually a call to action for businesses, consumers, and policymakers alike.

Embracing sustainable alternatives, investing in innovative technologies, and adopting responsible consumption habits are imperatives for a healthier planet and a sustainable future.

The cost of inaction is far greater than the price of transition. As we stand at this crossroad, the path we choose will define the legacy we leave for future generations.

The real cost of plastic is a multifaceted challenge, but it also presents an opportunity for collective action and innovation. Together, as we do at Papkot? , we can turn this tide, forging a future where sustainability and responsibility are not just ideals but tangible realities.