Phthalates (also known as phthalic acid esters, or PAEs) are used as plasticisers in many consumer products, such as plastics and polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and as solvents in adhesives, cosmetics and paints. Phthalates are one of the most common organic contaminants in the environment, but data about human exposure to them are limited.

Applying biochar to soil has been shown to improve carbon sequestration and soil health, and remediate contaminated soil and water resources. Biochar is valuable as a nutrient source and a soil amendment, to remediate contaminated soil and aquatic ecosystems.

Plastics can pollute the air, land and water during all stages of their life cycle from manufacture to disposal. Synthetic plastics do not biodegrade and tend to accumulate in the environment. Particulate plastics of varying physical size fractions are becoming major sources of pollutants in terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems.

Coal dust – which may be a component of urban dust – is of concern to many communities, particularly those near coal mines, railroads and ports. To reduce dust concentrations, we need to first understand where the particulates originate from by characterising the particles that comprise the dust.

Environmental mercury that is absorbed in the diet can have serious effects on human health, including neurological and reproductive effects. The Pearl River Delta in south China has transformed from an agricultural centre to a manufacturing centre during the past few decades.

Uncontrolled population growth, rapid urbanisation, the rise in community living standards and poor planning have accelerated the rate of generation of municipal solid waste (MSW) in Sri Lanka. Waste is ending up in open dump sites and, subsequently, water sources.

Chronic kidney disease of unknown etiology (CKDu) has been sweeping parts of Sri Lanka in recent years, mainly affecting farmers in the North Central Province, but also in the Northern Province, the Eastern Province, the North Western Province, the Uva Province and the Central Province.

In this article, we look at the sources and pathways of endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) entering our bodies, the bioaccessibility–bioavailability–bioactivity continuum of EDCs, and how they may be associated with human allergies.

The bioavailability and toxicity of contaminants such as heavy metal(loid)s is underpinned by their bioaccessibility. Some heavy metal(loid)s are ingested accidentally, such as arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg) and lead (Pb).

Our exposure to per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) is a major health concern due to their widespread occurrence and adverse health effects. Mounting evidence indicates that PFAS pollution, even at low levels, affects human development and reproductive functioning.