In early March, the European Environment Agency (EEA) published a new briefing highlighting the link between air, noise and chemical pollution and some mental health conditions. The briefing includes a comprehensive review of existing studies and makes recommendations on the opportunities for action.

According to the briefing, associations have been found between exposure to certain harmful chemicals and a variety of mental health conditions. For example, prenatal exposure to bisphenol A (BPA) was found to be associated with both depression and anxiety in children and adolescents. BPA is a known endocrine disrupting chemical (EDC), meaning it can interfere with the body’s sensitive hormone system. We are mainly exposed to BPA via ingestion, as it can leach into food from plastic packaging and food and drink can linings. A ban on BPA in food contact materials was adopted by the EU Commission in December 2024, coming into force at the beginning of 2025. For most uses, the phase-out period is 18 months, while some have a longer transition period.

The EEA also highlights links between exposure to phthalates and prenatal exposure to PFAS and depression in adults. Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of highly persistent chemicals which are often used in products for their grease and water-repellent properties. Phthalates are commonly added to plastics to increase their flexibility and durability. Exposure to some PFAS and phthalates has been linked to negative health impacts, such as impaired organ development in children, and certain cancers.

In addition, the briefing looked at the links between heavy metals and mental health issues, as well as reviewing the literature on links between air and noise pollution and mental health disorders.

The authors state that further research is needed but argue that the breadth of existing evidence strengthens the justification for full implementation of EU regulation as well as for further efforts to reduce exposure to air, chemical and noise pollution. They highlight the importance of taking the One Health approach, which recognises that human, animal and environmental health are all interconnected.

CHEM Trust continues to support ongoing efforts to ensure that people and wildlife are protected from the most harmful chemicals.

For more advice on how to reduce your risk of exposure to harmful chemicals, check out our webpage.

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