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As concerns grow globally about the impact of plastics on human health and the environment, Jamaicans are being strongly encouraged to avoid burning plastics, and to make more informed consumer choices by selecting products free of microplastics.

This call comes as the Government enters the final phase of its single-use plastic ban, which now includes personal care and cosmetic products containing microbeads or microplastics. The move aligns with increasing international scrutiny over the effects of plastic waste, not only on ecosystems but also on human health.

According to the Chief Technical Director for Development Planning, Environment Policy and Management in the Ministry of Economic Growth and Job Creation, Gillian Guthrie, "burning plastics such as bottles, containers, or packaging materials can release highly toxic chemicals, including dioxins and furans, which are hazardous to both the environment and respiratory health".

"While local data on the long-term health effects of microplastic exposure remain limited, international research from the World Health Organization and other global bodies has linked microplastic ingestion and inhalation to potential health issues, particularly for vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions," she added.

The issue of microplastics is particularly concerning in coastal nations like Jamaica, where plastic waste in waterways can degrade into microscopic particles. These particles are consumed by fish and marine species and can eventually make their way back to human consumers.

"Inhaling the fumes from burning plastic is not just unpleasant, it's dangerous and every time we wash off certain cosmetics, we're sending microplastics directly into our environment," Guthrie pointed out.

The call to action is part of the ministry's broader Plastic-Free Summer Campaign, which this year puts a special focus on the health and ecological threats posed by plastic microbeads in personal care products. The campaign, dubbed 'Do Something Drastic, Cut the Plastic', encourages Jamaicans to read product labels, choose natural or biodegradable alternatives, and report illegal burning of waste to the relevant authorities. It also underscores the need for community involvement and is calling on citizens not only to stop the practice of burning plastics at home, but to educate others on the harmful impacts of improper plastic disposal.