Report Calls Plastics “Grave” Danger To Health As Nations Negotiate Treaty

"Plastics are a “grave” danger to humans and the planet, responsible for an estimated $1.5 trillion annually in health-related costs, and nations need to center human health as they finalize the global plastics treaty, scientists said in a new report released Monday.

The report, The Lancet Countdown on health and plastics, warns that increased plastic production is behind this massive economic loss and “global plastic output is on track to nearly triple by 2060.” The report was published as leaders from nations around the world gather in Geneva, Switzerland, this week for the sixth round of global plastic treaty talks.

The impacts of plastic production and pollution “result in huge economic costs to society,” Dr. Philip Landrigan, lead author and director of the Global Observatory on Planetary Health at Boston College, said in a statement. “To those meeting in Geneva: please take up the challenge and the opportunity of finding the common ground that will enable meaningful and effective international cooperation in response to this global crisis.”"

Brian Bienkowski reports for The New Lede August 4, 2025.

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