Source: IE

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Context :

• Black plastic came into the news when a study raised concerns that it releases toxic flame retardants into food.
• This includes everyday items like kitchen utensils & takeout containers.

Details :

• The study suggested that black plastic products may contain harmful chemicals from recycled electronics, which can create a problem for our health.
• However, the study was later corrected when researchers said that earlier they made a mistake in their calculations about a chemical called BDE-209.
• This correction again brought further discussions about whether black plastic products are actually safe to use.

What is a chemical called BDE-209 ?

• BDE-209 is also known as Decabromodiphenyl Ether (DecaBDE).
• It is a brominated flame retardant with a biphenyl structure and 10 bromine atoms.
• It is used in electronics, fabrics, plastics, and other materials to reduce flammability.
• It has raised environmental and health concerns due to its persistence and
• its use has been restricted or phased out in many countries.
• It is a Part of the group of chemicals called polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs).

What is Black Plastic?

• Black plastic is made from recycled materials, especially from old electronic waste such as computers, TVs, and household appliances.
• These recycled electronics contain chemicals that are harmful, For Example:
  • • Flame Retardants (such as bromine & antimony), which are used to prevent fires.
    • Heavy Metals like lead, cadmium, & mercury, which are toxic at high levels.
• While these chemicals are helpful in electronics. But they can be harmful if they are found in everyday items like kitchen tools or food containers, where they could get into food or be absorbed by the skin.

India has implemented a range of regulations to address plastic pollution and its associated health issues.

• Single-Use Plastic Ban:
  • • India has implemented a ban on identified single-use plastic items.
    • This ban aims to reduce the volume of plastic waste entering the environment.
• Plastic Waste Management Rules:
  • • The Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016 & subsequent amendments provide a framework for managing plastic waste.
    • These rules focus on the importance of segregation, collection, recycling, & disposal of plastic waste.
• Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR):
  • • EPR mandates that producers, importers, & brand owners are responsible for the collection & management of plastic waste generated by their products.
    • This shifts the responsibility of waste management from local authorities to the producers.

These rules reflect India's commitment towards tackling plastic pollution and promoting sustainable waste management practices.

Source:

IE