Generation Plastic: Why Children's Health Must Come Before Plastic Pollution

Plastic

Today's children are growing up in a world surrounded by plastic. From baby bottles and toys to food packaging, clothing and school supplies, plastic is part of everyday life. Scientists increasingly refer to them as "Generation Plastic" because they face lifelong exposure to plastic products and the chemicals they contain.

Global plastic production is projected to increase by about 70% by 2040, while plastic waste continues to accumulate in landfills, rivers and oceans. With only a small share of plastics effectively recycled, pollution is becoming one of the defining environmental challenges of this generation.

Health experts warn that children are especially vulnerable. Chemicals found in some plastics—including phthalates, bisphenols and PFAS—have been linked in studies to potential effects on hormone function, brain development and the immune system. Children living near dumpsites, plastic-burning areas and manufacturing facilities face even greater risks.

For Ghana, the problem extends beyond health. Plastic waste clogs drains, worsens flooding, pollutes water bodies and threatens livelihoods.

Experts say the solution lies in reducing unnecessary plastic production, eliminating hazardous chemicals from children's products, improving waste collection and recycling, ending open burning of waste, and placing children's health at the centre of environmental policy.

The bottom line: Generation Plastic did not create the plastic crisis, but it will live with its consequences. Protecting today's children requires urgent action to reduce plastic pollution and build a cleaner, healthier future.