This study is shifting dominating narrative on plastic recycling.

The electrical and electronic engineering industry is a major consumer of Brominated Flame Retardants (BFRs), using them to reduce flammability in plastic components for electronics. Despite existing regulations, studies have detected BFRs like Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs) and Hexabromocyclododecane (HBCD) in various consumer products, including children's toys, kitchen utensils, and recycled plastic items. These BFRs found in new products are not deliberately added but come from recycled plastics used in their production.
The objective of this study was to investigate whether BFRs from e-waste end up in new consumer goods due to plastic recycling. This research focused on assessing the impact of unregulated e-waste plastic recycling in African and Arabic regions on products like children's toys, hair accessories, kitchen utensils, and office supplies. The study examined 434 samples of consumer products made from recycled black plastic in eleven countries, revealing a mix of various BFRs. This practice affects the market with potentially harmful consequences for human health.

What do you think about the measures to address this issue and control BFRs in products and waste?