A study in Nature Communications surveyed more than 1,000 participants in 26 countries and found that burning plastic as household fuel occurs across cities in Africa, Asia and Latin America. More than a third of respondents said they were aware of the practice, 16 per cent reported they had burned plastic in their homes, and more than half described it as widespread.
Researchers link the practice to two main problems. Waste collection is often irregular or absent, and plastic is hard to manage because it does not decompose and scrap collectors accept only some types. Energy poverty, including lack of affordable gas and electricity and scarce firewood or charcoal, makes plastic an accessible option. Lead author Bishal Bharadwaj says the figures reflect a daily reality in low‑income neighbourhoods.
Health risks include fine particulates and hazardous organic compounds, and some plastics such as PVC can produce dioxins and furans. The study cites previous research that found toxins in chicken eggs near a site in Ghana where plastics and cables were burnt. Participants ranked improved waste management, access to clean energy and awareness raising as key solutions.
Difficult words
- survey — to ask people questions to collect informationsurveyed
- burn — to destroy or change by fire or heatburning, burned, burnt
- energy poverty — lack of affordable, reliable energy for households
- decompose — to break down naturally into simpler parts
- particulate — very small solid particles in the airparticulates
- dioxin — a toxic chemical produced by burning some plasticsdioxins
- waste management — systems for collecting, treating and disposing rubbish
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Why might people choose to burn plastic at home instead of other fuels?
- Which of the suggested solutions would be easiest to start in your community, and why?
- How could better waste collection change daily life in low-income neighbourhoods?
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