The global production of plastics is increasing, and that increase is accompanied by an increase in plastic waste.

Part of this waste makes its way into the marine environment in the form of micro-plastics. What do we know about the extent of this problem? More...

This Digest is a faithful summary of the leading scientific consensus report produced in 2010 by The Joint Group of Experts on the Scientific Aspects of Marine Environmental Protection (GESAMP):"Proceedings of the GESAMP International Workshop on micro- plastic particles as a vector in transporting persistent, bio- accumulating and toxic substances in the oceans" 

Because of increased concern over terrorist attacks on aircraft, new security scanners have been developed to screen passengers at airports, some using x-rays.

Is their use safe for passengers and workers? More...

The answers to these questions are a faithful summary of the scientific opinion produced in 2012 by the Scientific Committee on Emerging and Newly Identified Health Risks (SCENIHR):"Health effects of security scanners for passenger screening (based on X-ray technology)" 

New energy saving lighting technologies are being used more and more.

Can these new artificial light sources affect the health of the general public or of light-sensitive people? More...

The answers to these questions are a faithful summary of the scientific opinion produced in 2012 by the Scientific Committee on Emerging and Newly Identified Health Risks (SCENIHR):"Health effects of artificial light" 

Diethylhexyl-phthalate (DEHP) is a widely used plastic additive.

Its widespread use in everyday and medical products has raised some concerns about its safety. Does it pose a risk to health or the environment? More...

This Digest is a faithful summary of the leading scientific consensus report produced in 2008 by the European Chemicals Bureau (ECB):"Bis-(2-Ethylhexyl) Phthalate, DEHP), Summary Risk Assessment Report"