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Plastics and Chemicals

Plastics are ubiquitous in modern economies, yet they come with a high environmental cost. As the UN debates how to manage their impacts, this report looks at the factors shaping the industry, from oil companies’ efforts to diversify to scientists’ worries about microplastics

© Yuichi Yamazaki/AFP via Getty Images)

Countries remain at loggerheads as UN plastics treaty talks resume
To cut plastic pollution, simply cut plastic production — so many argue. Big fossil fuel producers beg to differ
How harmful are microplastics to human health?
Scientific research into how plastics affect the body is in its early days
Pressure builds to stem flow of plastic waste into the sea
Rich countries that send rubbish to poorer countries for processing are compounding a global problem
Plastics become growth driver for oil groups during energy transition
Focusing more on petrochemicals offers a hedge against falling demand for vehicle fuel
Regulators tighten rules on ‘forever chemicals’ in drinking water
As concerns mount about pollutants such as PFAS, the market for remediation is poised for rapid growth
Bioplastics start-ups gain ground but green credentials face scrutiny
Materials from organic sources could cut pollution, but there are potential downsides, too