A report published by Greenpeace on Thursday concluded that clothing sold on the Chinese e-commerce giant Shein platform contains hazardous chemicals exceeding the limits allowed in the European Union. The environmental organization clarified through its German branch in a statement that "among the 56 clothing items analyzed, 18 contained hazardous chemicals, some of which far exceeded the limits set by European regulations". The NGO noted the presence of phthalates (plasticizers) and PFAS compounds (known as 'forever chemicals') in this clothing sold on Shein. These substances are water and stain-resistant and are considered persistent pollutants. The NGO pointed out that these potentially toxic substances are linked to various diseases, including cancer, reproductive and growth disorders in children, and a weakened immune system. Greenpeace added that these substances enter the body through the skin and inhalation of fibers, noting that the tests also included children's clothing. Ulrike Zimmers, director of the Bremian Environmental Institute, which analyzed the clothing, explained in a video posted on the Greenpeace website: "There is a risk that children will put the clothing in their mouths, play with it, or even swallow it". Due to washing, these substances also end up in rivers, soil, and the food chain. The NGO had warned in 2022 about hazardous chemicals in Shein products. In response to questions from Agence France-Presse, Shein stated that it would remove from global markets any products "detected" to contain hazardous substances "as a precautionary measure". Asian e-commerce platforms have for months faced widespread criticism from environmental and human rights groups, as well as European companies and local authorities, leading to investigations against them, the imposition of heavy fines, and proposals for legislation to curb their growth.
