c. Copper

Costs to Human Health

― 3 Copper

Like silver, the antimicrobial properties of copper have been known for centuries, and like silver, it is the ions the metal releases that give it those properties. Its medical use as an agent of microbial control began after observing that those who worked with copper appeared to be immune from cholera during outbreaks in the 1800s. Laboratory testing has demonstrated that copper, and metal alloys containing copper, are effective against some bacteria, yeasts, and viruses.42 The Copper Development Association, a trade association for copper manufacturers, has registered six copper alloys with the EPA to be used as antimicrobials in touch surfaces—railings, door hardware, etc.43

Copper can also be incorporated into polymers to provide an antimicrobial effect in non-metallic items.44 Sanitaryware coatings containing copper claim to “suppress[es] the growth of algae, mold, mildew, fungi and bacteria which cause unpleasant odors, discoloration, staining, deterioration or corrosion.”45 Such coatings can be used on bathroom fixtures or in ceramic tiles. Researchers continue to study copper-based antimicrobials in laboratory settings to ascertain the limits to their applications. A 2016 Health Care Without Harm review of these studies concluded that, while copper alloy touch surfaces reduce microbial populations in lab tests, the only study yet to provide evidence that these surfaces result in reduced rates of infection has been disputed as showing “a low quality of evidence.” Likewise, “the antimicrobial efficacy of textiles containing copper...can vary considerably and interpretation of results of laboratory testing is subjective.”46

...while copper alloy touch surfaces reduce microbial populations in lab tests, the only study yet to provide evidence that these surfaces result in reduced rates of infection has been disputed as showing “a low quality of evidence.”