Plastic bottles abandoned in the car or exposed to the sun for hours are a common scene. However, how safe is it to drink from them? A recent study from Jinan University in China has strong answers. The results show that, when exposed to the sun, these bottles not only degrade, but release chemical compounds that can be harmful to health.
What happens to plastic bottles in the sun?
The key is volatile organic compounds (VOCs), chemicals that evaporate easily and, in many cases, are toxic. When plastic bottles, commonly made of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), are subjected to solar radiation, they release a mixture of VOCs, including carcinogens such as n-hexadecane. This process, called photodegradation, breaks down the structure of the plastic, releasing potentially harmful chemicals into the water.
VOCs are present not only in plastics such as PET, but also in products such as paints, cleaning products and fuels. While some of these compounds are relatively harmless in low concentrations, others can be hazardous to health, causing short- and long-term effects such as respiratory problems, skin irritation and, in the worst cases, cancer.
How much risk is involved in drinking from these bottles?
The study points out that the risks depend on the duration of exposure and the type of bottle. In the case of small bottles (less than half a liter), the amount of VOCs released is low, which minimizes health risks. However, with prolonged exposures or under extreme conditions, such as high temperatures, the cumulative risks increase. This implies that although not all sips of contaminated water are hazardous, repeated exposure to these compounds can lead to long-term adverse effects.
Beyond the sun: other risk factors
Solar radiation is not the only factor that degrades plastic bottles. Even by leaving water in a bottle for a single day, hundreds of chemicals can leach into the liquid. In addition, processes such as heating the bottles, whether intentional or accidental, can release microplastic particles, some of which have adverse effects such as altering the hormonal system. Microplasticity, a problem increasingly present in environmental studies, is associated with water pollution and human health, as microplastics can accumulate in our bodies over time.
Tips to minimize the risks
- Avoid reusing plastic bottles exposed to the sun for long periods of time.
- Store bottles in cool, dark places, away from heat sources.
- Opt for safer alternatives, such as reusable glass or stainless steel bottles. These options are not only more environmentally friendly, but also prevent the release of harmful substances.
- Replace plastic bottles frequently, especially those that have been subjected to prolonged exposure to the sun.
Final thought
This study underscores the importance of being informed about the materials we use on a daily basis. In addition to health risks, plastic degradation also has environmental implications, such as the release of microplastics into the ecosystem. Plastic bottles, although convenient, contribute to long-term environmental pollution. By changing our habits and opting for more sustainable choices, we not only improve our health, but also protect the planet from the growing plastic waste crisis.
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Science already has an answer about drinking water from a bottle exposed to the sun. Not good news
