Exposure to legacy and emerging phthalates and bisphenols in recycling workers: Evidence from the GreenMetalWaste...

The transition toward a circular economy is driving rapid growth in the recycling sector, yet occupational exposure remains poorly characterized, including exposure to phthalates and bisphenols. We conducted a human biomonitoring study among recycling workers handling e-waste, metal waste, and mixed waste in Sweden. The study included 114 exposed workers, 23 low-exposed workers, and 18 controls. Pre- and post-shift urine samples were analysed for phthalate and bisphenol metabolites using LC-MS/MS. Workers showed significantly higher post-shift urinary concentrations of phthalates (DiBP, DnBP, BBzP, and DnHP) and bisphenols (BPA and BPF) than controls; however, concentrations were generally lower in post-shift than in pre-shift samples across all exposure groups. Higher concentrations were observed among workers handling e-waste and metal waste, and among those performing extraction and, to a lesser extent, sorting and maintenance. Evidence of work-related exposure was observed for restricted legacy compounds (DEHP, DiBP, DnBP, BBzP, BPA) and newer or less-regulated substitutes (DPHP, DnHP, BPF). Correlation analyses indicated simultaneous co-exposure to multiple phthalates and bisphenols, and weak to moderate correlations with workplace dust concentrations (up to r_S = 0.40) suggested that inhalation may partly contribute to exposure. Inadequate local exhaust ventilation was associated with higher urinary concentrations of most biomarkers and significantly higher BBzP levels. These findings highlight the complex chemical mixtures present in recycling environments and underscore the need to control emissions at the source and to continue monitoring regulated and emerging phthalates and bisphenols to support prevention strategies for a growing recycling workforce.