Exposure to oil-based plastics and synthetic compounds, such as Bisphenol A and Bisphenol S, has been linked to infertility, endocrine system disruption and hormonal imbalances. Men living close to plastic producing factories have been documented to have significantly higher rates of infertility.

And hundreds of synthetic ‘plasticiser’ chemicals, such as Parabens and Phthalates, are used in common cosmetics such as fake tans, perfumes, make-up, shampoos, hairsprays, deodorants and lotions. Many of these chemicals are linked to a wide range of health issues.

Despite evidence of serious health impacts; thousands of products implicated in hazardous exposure continue to be sold to consumers.

Here are some tips:

• Avoid using cosmetics or hygiene products that contain Parabens or Phthalates – there are natural and organic products that can be purchased as alternatives.
• Limit children’s exposure to plastic products. In particular, avoid giving children plastic dummies to suck on.
• Use wooden spoons for cooking. Buy metal straws for drinking. Wooden chopping boards are best.
• Don’t cook food in plastic containers even if it is ‘oven ready’.
• Kitchen sponges are often made from plastic. Buy the Loofah sponges or some other biodegradable sponge.
• “BPA Free Plastic” is not necessarily any safer. Buy stainless-steel or glass products for uses such as lunchboxes, reusable coffee cups, food containers or water bottles.
• Get rid of products made from vinyl and PVC such as shower curtains, floor mats and toys.
• Buy biodegradable plastic bags for rubbish and recycling needs. Use fabric bags at supermarkets and shops.
• When possible, avoid buying food or drinks stored in non-biodegradable plastic. Especially avoid the thin plastic wrapping known as cling film. Remove vegetables and fruit from plastic packaging once you get them home.
• Buying organic veg boxes from companies who deliver to your door, usually means no plastic wrapping — and also much fresher food than in the supermarket. I can recommend Abel & Cole in the UK and Green Earth Organics in Ireland.
• Microplastics are being found in water supplies. Make sure you’re drinking clean water.
• Clothes are increasingly being made with plastics. Always wash new clothes before wearing. And look to purchase natural materials for clothes that are in skin contact.
• Some people have said that by ensuring a healthy balance of bacteria in your gut, you can limit the absorption of plastic toxins. Probiotics can reportedly be helpful to detox plastic from the body.