One of London’s
leading sustainable events venues, 15Hatfields, is calling for more
research as US scientists detect microplastics in human brains for the first
time.
The
study, yet to be
independently verified and peer reviewed by other scientists, revealed the tiny
particles that are less than five millimetres in diameter, are infiltrating
human organs, including the brain.
Scientists
believe the microplastics are entering the human brain through several pathways
including inhalation, ingestion or through the bloodstream.
Since
its inception in 2008, the South Bank venue has been campaigning against the use of single-use plastic for environmental reasons. In 2019 through its ‘Make Plastic History’
campaign it furthered its commitment completely eradicating it - saving tens of
thousands of items being thrown away every year.
Warren
Campbell, general manager of 15Hatfields, said: “The eradication of single-use
plastic has always been something that we’ve been committed to because in most
cases it is difficult to recycle and ends up producing chemical pollution and
harming wildlife. It is alarming to think that scientists have now potentially
discovered a link beyond its pervasive impact on ecosystems and it could be
impacting human health.
“While
the full health implications are yet unknown, we welcome further research to
shine a spotlight on the issue and are keen to explore this further as we
continue our mission to share insight and educate the industry on the need to
eliminate single-use plastics.”
