Industry Updates: Deadly Cosmetics, A Plastic Pollution Solution, and Two Sides of Tech

After finding traces of asbestos (a deadly human carcinogen for which there is no safe level of exposure) in talc-based cosmetics products, the Environmental Working Group has issued a new warning advocating for consumers to check the ingredient list before purchasing. While testing products such as soaps, loose and pressed powders, aerosol sprays, and other cosmetic liquids last year, EWG found this deadly ingredient in more than 2,000 personal care items. 

Exposure to asbestos, even for a short period of time, can lead to mesothelioma, asbestosis, and various forms of cancer years later. The EWG Action Fund has estimated that 15,000 Americans die on average each year due to asbestos-linked causes. As the FDA does not currently require mandatory talc testing to detect asbestos, it is more important than ever for consumers to take matters into their own hands by reading the ingredient labels to avoid using toxic ingredients.

South Korea has released a plan to grow the white biotechnology industry, a decision that will help minimize the amount of bioplastic in the environment. 

A Germany-based company has developed new molecular sensing technology to better match consumers with cosmetic recommendations.

On another note, researchers at Riga Technical University are looking into using technology to prevent asteroids from hitting Earth in the future. 

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