Polyvinyl Chloride

Action at 2000 Olympic site. PVC pipes are replaced with alternative
material.

Greenpeace Australia action at Olympic site. PVC pipes are replaced for alternative material.

The list of uses for Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) is endless because it is one of the most widely used plastics.

It is found in a wide range of consumer products such as packaging, cling film, bottles, credit cards, audio records and imitation leather as well as construction materials such as window frames, cables, pipes, flooring, wallpaper and window blinds. It is also used by manufacturers for car interiors and in hospitals as medical disposables.

However, the production of PVC creates and releases one of the most toxic chemicals - dioxin.

PVC products can leak harmful additives during use and disposal, when they are burned or buried. Burning creates and releases more dioxins and compounds containing chlorine, which further contaminates the environment.

PVC is difficult to recycle, resulting in much of it ending up in landfills. Chemicals, such as phthalates are added to PVC to make it soft and flexible.

Laboratory studies in animals show that some of these chemicals are linked to cancer and kidney damage and may interfere with the reproductive system and its development.

Recent testing by several governments has also shown that children can ingest hazardous chemicals from PVC toys during use.

Governments and industry are taking action to eliminate PVC. Danish and Swedish governments are restricting PVC use, hundreds of communities worldwide are eliminating PVC in buildings and many companies such as Nike, IKEA and The Body Shop have committed to eliminating PVC from their products.

Greenpeace is campaigning to phase out PVC in favour of more environmentally friendly alternatives.