《柳叶刀》杂志警示：塑料污染每年造成损失超1.5万亿美元

Core Viewpoint - The United Nations' negotiations for a legally binding agreement on plastic pollution have commenced, highlighting the urgent need for international cooperation to address this growing crisis [1][2]. Group 1: Health Impact of Plastic Pollution - A recent study published in The Lancet indicates that plastic pollution poses a significant and underappreciated threat to human health, resulting in economic losses related to health of at least $1.5 trillion annually [1]. - The study reveals that plastic pollution affects all stages of human life, from newborns to the elderly, and is linked to diseases and even death, categorizing it alongside air pollution and lead poisoning in terms of health risks [1]. - Microplastics have infiltrated natural ecosystems and human tissues, with scientists confirming their potential hazards, although comprehensive health impacts are still under investigation [1]. Group 2: Plastic Production and Recycling - Global plastic production has surged exponentially, increasing from 2 million tons in 1950 to 475 million tons in 2022, with projections suggesting a further doubling by 2060, while the current recycling rate remains below 10% [1]. Group 3: Interconnection with Climate Crisis - The plastic crisis is intrinsically linked to the climate crisis, as the plastic industry, reliant on fossil fuels, contributes to both environmental challenges, with health risks expected to escalate alongside rising global temperatures and increasing plastic production [1]. Group 4: Call for Action - The report urges representatives at the Geneva conference to seize this historic opportunity to seek consensus amidst differences and establish an effective international cooperation mechanism to combat this global crisis [2].