Toxic Chemicals and Climate Change Threaten Fertility

A recent review in NPJ Emerging Contaminants highlights how exposure to toxic chemicals, particularly endocrine-disrupting compounds, may impair fertility in humans and wildlife, with climate change intensifying these effects. Species across ecosystems—from insects to mammals—face simultaneous exposure to synthetic pollutants and rising temperatures, both of which can damage reproductive health by affecting sperm and egg quality.

The study notes that these combined stressors also weaken overall health and reduce the ability of organisms to adapt, contributing to biodiversity loss. Alarmingly, some of these chemicals can have multi-generational effects, meaning their impact may persist long after initial exposure.

Researchers stress that once released, such chemicals accumulate in the environment and interact with other global pressures. They call for stronger regulatory approaches that evaluate chemicals collectively rather than individually, alongside broader action on climate change to safeguard long-term ecological and human health.

04-05-2026