The practice is ‘much more widespread’ than previously realised, researchers say, with serious environmental impact
The household burning of plastic for heating and cooking is widespread in developing countries, suggests a global study that raises concerns about its health and environmental impacts.
The research, published in the journal Nature Communications, surveyed more than 1,000 respondents across 26 countries.
One in three people reported being aware of households burning plastic, while 16% said they had burned plastic themselves.
Respondents worked closely with low-income urban neighbourhoods and included researchers, government workers and community leaders.
