18 February 2009 — I just discovered today a news piece about a school board in Elkridge Maryland agreeing to spend $45,924 to purchase 10,320 compartmented trays made of polycarbonate plastic (the kind that contains BPA) to be used by school children. I am disappointed that the science behind the dangers of this type of plastic is still not fully accepted, therefore putting thousands of children at risk. As I understand it, these trays will be used like a plate and will be in contact with food.
Just as a reminder, the Canadian Government declared this chemical toxic to human health last fall. BPA is a known hormone disruptor linked to the development of cancer cells in animals and to breast cancer in humans (http://www.breastcancerfund.org/site/pp.asp?c=kwKXLdPaE&b=2638145). It is also linked to damage in the development of the brain (Bisphenol A prevents the synaptogenic response to estradiol in hippocampus and prefrontal cortex of ovariectomized nonhuman primates.).
I guess that money is behind this decision… This desire to save will result not only in children’s health being exposed to this dangerous plastic, but also in tons more plastics littering the environment.
Full article, follow this link: BOE OKs new plastic trays.
Chantal Plamondon
Co-Owner, LifeWithoutPlastic.com