The BPA Effect

What happens to the plastics that we find in the oceans? Does it float forever, or does it break down?

Studies show that plastics do in fact decompose. So, what does that mean? You ask. That means there is more of a threat to sea life from the chemicals released. The chemical called Bisphenol A or BPA, is a highly toxic chemical released one plastic starts to decompose according to Saido, a Chemist at Nihon University in Chiba, Japan. BPA is harmful as it disrupts the hormones of the wildlife along with their reproductive organs. BPA not only hurts the wildlife, but is said to have an adverse effect on humans as well. Humans run the risk of BPA contamination not only through the ocean, but through the lining of our water bottles. Even so much as eating a fish might subject you to BPA.

To prevent having our wildlife as well as ourselves exposed to BPA, there are certain things we can do. Try to eat a diet that doesn’t mainly consist of fish. Be responsible with your trash and waste products. Try to avoid plastics at all cost, we’ve come to a point where there’s likely an alternative to the plastic water bottle or plastic bag you might use.