A study by BAN Toxics and the Environmental and Social Development Organization (ESDO) has revealed alarming levels of toxic chemicals in plastic toys sold in the Philippines and Bangladesh, particularly in low-income communities.
The study, titled Not Suitable for Children: Toxic Chemicals in Plastic Toys, examined 257 toy samples from Metro Manila and Dhaka, finding that 62.64% contained harmful substances such as arsenic, lead, cadmium, mercury, bromine, and chlorine.
Using X-ray fluorescence screening, researchers detected heavy metals exceeding safety standards, with cadmium levels reaching over 100,000 ppm and lead up to 4,600 ppm. These levels could classify the toys as hazardous waste under Philippine regulations.
The study highlights serious health risks associated with the chemicals, including cancer, neurological damage, hypertension, diabetes, and infertility, particularly endangering children and their families.
The report also exposes gaps in toy safety regulations, with many products lacking proper labeling, warnings, or ingredient details, violating the Philippines’ Toy and Game Safety Labeling Act.
Most of the hazardous toys were found to be manufactured in China, underscoring the transboundary nature of the issue. A popular item, the “Shrilling Chicken,” was flagged in both countries for excessive DEHP, a toxic plastic additive banned in several regions.
The findings show that toys sold in poorer communities, priced between ₱55 and ₱192.50, often bypass safety standards, exposing vulnerable households to greater risks during the holiday season.
BAN Toxics and ESDO recommend stricter toy safety standards aligned with international guidelines, better regulatory enforcement, and transparency in labeling to protect children.
The study coincides with ongoing negotiations at the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee-5 for a Global Plastics Treaty in Korea, where BAN Toxics is participating as an observer.
“This evidence calls for ambitious actions to protect public health and the environment from the hazards of plastic pollution,” said Thony Dizon, campaigner for BAN Toxics.
Siddika Sultana, ESDO’s Executive Director, emphasized the urgency of stronger regulations, saying, “Together, we must ensure children grow up in a healthier and safer environment.”