• NocturnalMorning@lemmy.world
    link
    fedilink
    arrow-up
    12
    arrow-down
    4
    ·
    1 year ago

    We have studies showing that sperm count is lowered by microplastics. We might actually have a reproductive crisis on our hands in the future. But, hey, its cheap, so why not right?

    • TheEntity@kbin.social
      link
      fedilink
      arrow-up
      10
      arrow-down
      1
      ·
      1 year ago

      Fortunately reproduction is going to be the smallest of our concerns when the planet starts boiling.

      • Player2@sopuli.xyz
        link
        fedilink
        arrow-up
        4
        ·
        edit-2
        1 year ago

        Indeed. If anything, this side effect will be a benefit for humanity in the medium term

        • Lexi Sneptaur@pawb.social
          link
          fedilink
          English
          arrow-up
          1
          ·
          1 year ago

          Ah yes, BPA, which I had already addressed.

          For example, bisphenol A (BPA), a plasticizer used for the synthesis of phenol resins, polyacrylates, polyesters, epoxy resins, and polycarbonate plastics, is used for the production of drink and food packaging, and in case of high temperature exposure or pH variation (e.g., washing in washing machines, food heating into the microwave, contact with acid foods) leaches into wastewater, contaminates foods and beverages, thus representing both ecotoxicological and health risks

          Other than BPA, there is still not much evidence regarding negative health effects. BPA is in the process of being banned even in many US states, and many companies have already moved away from it because of these health effects. Other plastics seem not to have the same effect.

    • monotrox@discuss.tchncs.de
      link
      fedilink
      arrow-up
      3
      ·
      1 year ago

      I think it has been shown that certain plastic softeners (e.g. phatalates) cause fertility issues, some of that might be included in microplastics but plastic itself I have not seen anything (And these specific softeners can be banned and are already mostly banned in the EU).