The Health Risks of Burning Plastic

Burning plastic poses significant health and environmental risks that are often overlooked. Here, we explore the dangers associated with burning plastic, including the toxic chemicals released, immediate and long-term health impacts, and why it’s crucial to avoid this practice. We’ll also examine specific risks posed by plastic pipes in building fires, drawing on recent research that highlights alarming health hazards.

How Toxic is Burning Plastic?

Burning plastic releases a cocktail of harmful chemicals and toxins, making it extremely toxic to human health and the environment. The toxicity level depends on the type of plastic and combustion temperature, but all burning plastic poses significant health risks.

Recent studies by CuSP show that burning plastic pipes can release toxins at levels hundreds of times higher than safer alternatives like copper. For instance, when burned for just eight minutes:

• Multi-layer composite pipes (MLCP) produced 248 times more carbon monoxide than copper pipes.
• Cross-linked Polyethylene (PEX) pipes produced 209.5 times more carbon monoxide than copper

These figures underscore the extreme toxicity of burning plastic, especially in enclosed spaces like homes or buildings.

Why is Burning Plastic Bad?

Burning plastic is harmful for several reasons:

1. Toxic Chemical Release: Plastic combustion releases dangerous chemicals including dioxins, furans, mercury, and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs).
2. Environmental Pollution: These toxins contaminate air, soil, and water sources, contributing to long-term environmental degradation.
3. Health Hazards: Exposure can cause various health issues, from respiratory problems to cancer.
4. Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Burning plastic releases carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases, contributing to climate change.
5. Microplastic Pollution: Incompletely burned plastic can break down into microplastics, entering food chains and water supplies.

Can Burning Plastic Cause Cancer?

Yes, burning plastic can potentially cause cancer. Many chemicals released are known carcinogens:

• Dioxins from burning PVC are classified as known human carcinogens by the World Health Organisation.
• Styrene from burning polystyrene is a suspected carcinogen.
• Benzene emitted when many plastics burn is a known carcinogen.

Long-term exposure increases the risk of various cancers, including lung, liver, and lymphoma. The UK government provides more information on fire safety regulations and health risks.

What Does Burning Plastic Do?

When plastic burns, it undergoes thermal decomposition, breaking down long polymer chains and releasing various chemicals:

1. Toxic Gas Emission: Releases harmful gases like carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and hydrogen cyanide.
2. Particulate Matter: Produces fine particles that can be inhaled deep into the lungs, causing respiratory issues.
3. Chemical Transformation: Heat causes chemical reactions creating new, often more toxic compounds.
4. Smoke Production: Produces thick, black smoke reducing visibility and accelerating fire spread.
5. Residue Formation: Leaves behind toxic residue contaminating soil and water.

What Does Burning Plastic Release?

Burning plastic releases a complex mixture of chemicals which can include:

1. Carbon Monoxide (CO): A poisonous gas causing rapid unconsciousness and death.
2. Carbon Dioxide (CO2): While not directly toxic, high levels can displace oxygen and contribute to climate change.
3. Hydrogen Cyanide (HCN): A highly toxic gas that can cause rapid death.
4. Dioxins and Furans: Highly toxic compounds causing reproductive and developmental problems, immune system damage, and cancer.
5. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): Cause various health effects from eye and respiratory tract irritation to liver damage and cancer.
6. Heavy Metals: Depending on the plastic type, metals like lead and mercury can be released, causing neurological damage.

Does Burning Plastic Release Carbon Monoxide?

Yes, burning plastic releases significant amounts of carbon monoxide. The Plastic Under Fire study found:

• MLCP produced 248 times more carbon monoxide than copper when burned for eight minutes
• PEX produced 209.5 times more carbon monoxide than copper in the same timeframe

Carbon monoxide is particularly dangerous as it’s odourless and colourless. It binds to haemoglobin more readily than oxygen, reducing blood’s ability to carry oxygen to vital organs. For more information on carbon monoxide risks, visit the Health and Safety Executive’s carbon monoxide page.

Long-Term Health Impacts of Plastic Burning

Exposure to toxins released by burning plastic can have severe long-term health consequences:

1. Respiratory Diseases: Chronic exposure can lead to asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and other respiratory conditions.
2. Cardiovascular Issues: Toxins can damage blood vessels and increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.
3. Neurological Problems: Some chemicals can cause damage to the nervous system, leading to cognitive impairment, memory loss, and other neurological disorders.
4. Reproductive Issues: Certain toxins can affect fertility and fetal development.
5. Endocrine Disruption: Some plastic additives are known endocrine disruptors, which can interfere with hormone function.
6. Immune System Damage: Prolonged exposure can weaken the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to diseases.

The Danger of Plastic Pipes in Building Fires

Our Plastic Under Fire study highlighted specific dangers of plastic pipes in building fires:

1. PEX pipes burned completely in under three minutes, severely limiting evacuation time.
2. CSST pipes produced 761 times more smoke than copper pipes within the first four minutes, potentially trapping occupants.
3. MLCP released hydrogen cyanide, a highly toxic gas when burned for just eight minutes.

These findings underscore the importance of considering fire safety when choosing building materials, especially in high-rise structures where evacuation can be challenging. For more information on fire safety in buildings, visit the Fire Protection Association website.

Environmental Impact of Burning Plastic

Beyond immediate health risks, burning plastic has significant environmental consequences:

1. Air Pollution: Toxic chemicals released contribute to smog and poor air quality.
2. Soil Contamination: Ash and residues from burned plastic can leach into the soil, affecting plant life and entering the food chain.
3. Water Pollution: Toxins can seep into groundwater or be washed into water bodies, harming aquatic ecosystems.
4. Climate Change: The release of greenhouse gases like CO2 contributes to global warming.
5. Wildlife Impact: Animals can ingest toxic residues or inhale harmful fumes, leading to health issues or death.

The toxicity of burning plastic cannot be overstated. From the release of carcinogens and toxic gases to the long-term health and environmental impacts, the dangers are severe and wide-ranging. As individuals, we must avoid burning plastic and properly dispose of plastic waste. On a larger scale, there’s a pressing need to reconsider the use of plastic materials, especially in construction, where fire safety is paramount.

By understanding these risks, we can make informed decisions that protect our health, our communities, and our environment. Whether it’s choosing safer building materials like copper pipes or advocating for stricter regulations on plastic use and disposal, every action counts in mitigating the health risks associated with burning plastic.

Remember, the choices we make today about plastic use and disposal have far-reaching consequences for our health and the planet’s future. Let’s choose wisely and prioritise safety and sustainability in all our decisions involving plastic materials.