PVC
The polymer polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is used extensively in floor coverings, windows and doors, cable coverings, piping and packaging
During the production of PVC, dioxins are created and released. Dioxins are one of the most toxic chemicals known. They have been linked to immune system problemsand cancer.
There are calls for PVC to be phased out completely and Greenpeace, for one, have campaigned heavily towards this end. There are those in the industry who are fighting the corner for PVC just as strongly. They say that it is a product perfect for recycling and that depositing of PVC is a last resort. Currently, only 0.1% PVC used is recycled. Recycling is difficult as the product is invariably contaminated with other materials.