Feature story - December 13, 2004
The deadly chemical dioxin has hit the headlines with the poisoning of Ukrainian opposition leader Viktor Yuschenko. What doesn't often make the news is the fact that dioxin pollution is widespread and may be lurking in your own home. Find out where.
Protest against toxic dioxin emmissions from a polluting incinerator.
What is dioxin?
One of the biggest sources of dioxin is the widely used plastic PVC (commonly known as "vinyl"). Dioxins are created during the production, use and disposal of PVC especially in incinerators or open fires. Once created, dioxins persist in the environment for many years. Dioxin is one of the most toxic substances known, and has been found to cause cancer and reproductive disorders.
What products in my home are made of PVC?
From shower curtains to vinyl floors to PVC pipes, you might be surprised at the numerous ways this plastic is used. While on its surface PVC may appear to be the ideal building material, it has high environmental and human health costs that its manufacturers fail to tell consumers.
Learn more:
How to Find and Avoid Toxic Vinyl (PVC) in Your Home
What other products should I be aware of?
In addition to products used to build your home, there are also products used every day by your family.
Learn more:
2003 Toy Report Card
We released our first Toy Manufacturers' Report Card in February 2000 at the International Toy Fair in New York City. In 2003 we updated the list. Which companies made progress? Which didn't? Find out more about PVC and your child's toys.
The Greenpeace 2001 Athletic Shoe Shopping Guide
We conducted a survey of popular shoe manufacturers to see who is being naughty or nice by avoiding the use of polluting PVC plastic. Here is how they stack up.
Reports for in depth information
Dioxin from Cradle to the Grave
PVC the Poison Plastic