Children as young as nine say they are ill from work recycling plastic

Plastic is so pervasive in our lives that we often forget how dangerous it can be, both for us and the environment.

Reducing and recycling plastics is key for a sustainable transition, however needs to be done in a safe way. When plastics is melted, it releases air pollutants and toxins including POPs that can contribute to asthma, difficulty breathing and eye irritation. Exposure to these toxins can lead to an increased risk of cancer, neurological impacts and harm to the reproductive system.

Recycling is a necessary goal, but what good can it make if we put at risk the health of people working to make it happen?

Workers and communities must be put at the centre if we want to have a just circular economy.