TOXIC CHEMICALS - THE RED LIST

Polyvinylchloride(PVC)

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is a synthetic polymer made from the monomer vinyl chloride and is the third most common plastic type. It's commonly used in a variety of interior materials due to its versatility and durability. Some of these materials include plumbing pipes, vinyl flooring, insulation for electrical cables and wires, window frames, and some types of furniture upholstery and padding. PVC poses several dangers, primarily due to the release of toxic chemicals – such as dioxin – during its production, use, and disposal. It has been labelled “the poison plastic” by Greenpeace. PVC is not biodegradable, and it is estimated that 54 million tons of PVC are produced every year.

Prolonged exposure to PVC and its additives has been linked to respiratory problems, developmental issues in children, certain types of cancer, infertility and damage to immune and hormone systems.

StrategiestopreventPVCcontaminationininteriorenvironments:

Opt for products made from safer materials, such as wood, metal, or natural fibers, instead of PVC whenever possible. Advancements in bio-based PVC formulations provide a safer alternative. Ensure adequate ventilation in indoor spaces where PVC-containing products are used. Dispose of PVC products responsibly by recycling them where possible or following appropriate waste disposal guidelines to minimize environmental impact. Look for PVC-free alternatives when purchasing items like flooring, furniture, and children's toys. Raise awareness about the dangers of PVC and advocate for safer alternatives in the community.

HalogenatedFlameRetardants

Halogenated flame retardants (HFRs) are a group of compounds added to materials to increase their fire resistance. These chemicals contain halogen atoms such as bromine, chlorine, iodine or fluorine. They are commonly used in a wide range of interior materials, including the foam padding of upholstered furniture, the plastic casings of electronics, and in insulation materials, wiring, and wall coverings. The main construction materials affected are extruded polystyrene (XPS) and expanded polystyrene (EPS) insulation. Many HFRs are persistent organic pollutants (POPs), meaning they resist degradation and can persist in the environment for long periods, and are bioaccumulative, concentrating in organic tissues. Exposure can cause adverse health effects, including developmental issues, immune suppression, reproductive problems, and hormone disruption. Exposure to certain HFRs, such as PBDEs, has been associated with neurological impairments and cancer.

StrategiestopreventHFRcontaminationininteriorenvironments:

Look for products labeled "flame-retardant-free" or made with alternative, safer flame retardants such as: Mineral-based Flame Retardants, Phosphorus-based Flame Retardants, Bio-based Flame Retardants, Inorganic Fillers and Non-Halogenated Additives.

Maintain good ventilation in indoor spaces to reduce the concentration of HFRs released from household products.

Support regulations and policies that restrict or phase out the use of harmful HFRs.