Plastic Pollution in Primate Habitats

The American Society of Primatologists (ASP) fully endorses the International Primatological Society’s (IPS) statement on plastic pollution in primate habitats.

IPS Statement on Plastic Pollution in Primate Habitats

WHEREAS the development of synthetic plastics has provided many benefits to human society

WHEREAS our growing dependency on plastics has resulted in excessive production and improper disposal, leading to unmanaged accumulation in the atmosphere, soil, waterways, and natural habitats, with negative consequences for ecosystems, wildlife, and human health

WHEREAS nonhuman primates are therefore exposed to plastic pollution and chemical additives in their habitats

WHEREAS a growing body of research shows the negative impact of plastic pollution on humans and its adverse health effects, yet little is known about the impact of plastic pollution on nonhuman primates

The International Primatological Society therefore RECOMMENDS:

THAT primatologists acknowledge plastic pollution as a potential threat to primates, biodiversity, and ecosystem health and support investigation of its impact

THAT field researchers commit to significantly reduce their plastic footprint in the field, avoid bringing single use plastic items, excessive packaging, and manage waste created as a result of their research through safe disposal and sanitation policies

THAT field researchers make every effort to recycle and reuse plastic waste found in primate habitats, and to prioritize local communities as beneficiaries of this practice

THAT the issue of plastic pollution be included in conservation efforts as a part of environmental education and community-based conservation to reduce its impacts and raise awareness about its potential problems

THAT field researchers monitor plastic pollution at their sites, track its presence, and, where feasible and appropriate, incorporate lab analyses or health assessments to discern its impacts on nonhuman primate populations

Writers and contributors:

Evelyn D. Anca, Janette Wallis, Colin Chapman, Júlio César Bicca-Marques, Sylvia Atsalis, Tainara V. Sobroza, Tania Akhter

February 2026