Poisonous Plastic

by Maria F. Aldana — April 10, 2008

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is known as the poison plastic, and it is one of the most common and inexpensive synthetic materials used. It is a highly toxic material that is dangerous to our health and environment. It is being used everywhere: flooring material, eating utensils, handbags, shower curtains, children's toys, and homes. PVC is not only highly toxic during the manufacturing stages but also harmful as an actual product. When PVC catches fire, it releases dioxins that are the most toxic synthetic chemicals tested. According to a study by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), vinyl shower curtains can cause elevated levels of dangerous air toxins, which can persist for more than a month. PVC plastic can cause cancer and respiratory problems. Healthy Building.net highlights a Swedish study "of 10,851 children found the presence of both floor moisture and PVC significantly increased the risk of asthma and the incidences were higher in multiple family dwellings where a higher percentage of PVC flooring was found." The list can go on about the dangers of this commonly used plastic -- it is not easy to recycle due to the various toxic additives used to stabilize this material. There are many safer alternatives to PVC and it is good news that there are many companies that are phasing out this toxic plastic, including Bath and Body Works, Honda, Ikea, Johnson and Johnson, Microsoft, Nike, Toyota, and Victoria's Secret. For more information about PVC, check out: http://www.chej.org or watch the documentary "Blue Vinyl."