PLASTICS AND HEAVY METALS: IMPLICATIONS FOR HUMANS

Abstract

This paper performs a literature review regarding the plastics and heavy metals, and effects on humans. Nowadays, industrialization is the champion of world spin. One of the famous manufacturing accomplishment made by industrialization is the plastic. Plastics are polymers made by adding or joining tiny units. Polymers contain other entities beside monomers, thereof, metals (such as heavy metals or the likes), are readily available in plastic chains for various reasons. When plastics are in contact with the soil or water or food, the metals may leach due to pressures. Leaching of metals induce contamination which in turn could affect the biological systems of humans or the likes with effects such as cancers, oxidative stress, hormones destruction, etc. It is therefore, pertinent to inform the public, so that significant measures could be taken to minimize usage and effects of plastics or their co-travelers (additives). Individuals should avoid plastics as ably as possible or reduce plastic use.