Researchers at the University of Gothenburg in Sweden examined the label of environmentally friendly paper cups and found they carry similar risks to plastic cups for people and ecosystems. The study surfaced in the journal Environmental Pollution.
The core concern is the thin waterproof coating on cups. To understand its impact, scientists ran tests using insects exposed to water and soil containing debris from this coating as it breaks down. The insects showed developmental problems in their larval stages, pointing to potential harm for other wildlife and for people as well.
Among the chemicals detected were UV stabilizers, flame retardants, plasticizers, and nonylphenol ethoxylates, a detergent linked to toxicity by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The researchers warn these substances can act as endocrine disruptors, with possible effects on reproductive health, growth, and other bodily processes.
There is a long-standing debate about what appears to be a greener option when it comes to everyday items. The Gothenburg findings suggest that even items marketed as eco-friendly, such as paper straws, can carry hidden health and environmental risks similar to conventional plastics.
The takeaway for consumers in North America is clear: material choices should be evaluated for the full life cycle, from production through disposal. Experts advise choosing goods with transparent safety data and supporting programs that reduce exposure to hazardous chemicals across the food and drink chain. Ongoing research continues to map how these compounds behave in real-world environments, guiding better design and policy decisions. This includes examining how coatings break down in drinking vessels and how residues might enter water sources and soil over time. The conversation highlights the need for rigorous testing, strong regulatory standards, and public awareness to ensure that the label eco-friendly truly reflects safety and sustainability. In practice, Canadians and Americans are encouraged to look for products that minimize chemical additives, favor recyclable materials, and support manufacturers with clear, independent testing and disclosure. In other words, informed choices can align convenience with health and environmental stewardship. This evolving topic remains essential for households, communities, and policymakers seeking safer, more sustainable consumption patterns. The research underscores that vigilance and transparency are key to separating marketing from measurable safety when it comes to everyday containers and their coatings. For those tracking the latest science, ongoing studies continue to assess how these substances behave in real life and what improvements are necessary to reduce exposure for all living beings.