PVC and PVDC Plastics

How am I exposed to PVC and PVDC?

People can be exposed to PVC, PVDC, and related chemicals in several ways.

Workers can be exposed when PVC and PVDC are manufactured, including to chemicals used to make these plastics, such as vinyl chloride, vinylidene chloride, and ethylene dichloride.^4-8 Other highly hazardous chemicals may also be used or released during the manufacturing process, including chlorine gas, asbestos, PFAS, mercury, dioxins, PCBs, and other chlorinated byproducts.^9-16

Communities near manufacturing facilities and rail transport routes can also be exposed to pollution and contamination events related to these substances.¹⁷ These burdens often fall disproportionately on low-income communities and communities of color, making PVC and PVDC not only chemical and product safety issues, but also an environmental justice concern.

People can also be exposed through products and materials made with PVC and PVDC, or through goods packaged in them.⁴ For example, a child may be exposed when playing with or mouthing a vinyl plastic toy.¹⁸

PVC and PVDC are used in some food packaging, which can lead to food contamination when chemicals migrate from the packaging into food (e.g., phthalate plasticizers from PVC/PVDC plastic food packaging).^{19, 20}

People in buildings that contain PVC or PVDC materials may also be exposed to microplastics and constituents of these substances via contaminated air and dust.^{21, 22} Over time, materials made of PVC and PVDC can break down and release microplastics that may be inhaled or ingested.^{23, 24}

After disposal, PVC and PVDC can continue to create hazards. These materials can persist in landfills, contribute to microplastic pollution, and release dangerous chemicals when burned.⁴ Burning PVC can release toxic chemicals including hydrochloric acid and dioxins,⁹ creating risks for nearby communities and for first responders, including firefighters, when buildings containing PVC materials burn.

Why should I be concerned about PVC and PVDC?

PVC and PVDC raise concerns because they are linked to hazardous chemicals throughout their lifecycle.

PVC production is the predominant use of vinyl chloride, a toxic chemical and known human carcinogen. Vinyl chloride is also associated with neurological, immune, and developmental health effects.^{5, 6}

PVDC production relies on vinylidene chloride, a toxic chemical linked to harmful effects of the respiratory system, liver, and kidneys.⁷ Ethylene dichloride, another toxic chemical used in vinyl chloride production, is linked to harmful effects on the respiratory system, liver, and kidneys, and is considered a probable human carcinogen.⁸

Both PVC and PVDC are organochlorine substances, a chemical class of concern for children, other sensitive populations, and wildlife. Some organochlorine substances are persistent, toxic, and bioaccumulative, meaning they can last in the environment, harm health, and build up in people, animals, and ecosystems.²⁵

PVC and PVDC can also contain hazardous additives, including phthalates, chlorinated paraffins, and other flame retardants, organotins, and bisphenol A (BPA). Heavy metals such as lead and cadmium may also be used.⁹

PVC is also a major source of microplastic pollution. These particles can pose hazards because of their physical effects and because they can contain or release chemical additives, including phthalates and other chemicals associated with PVC and PVDC.^{23, 24}

When PVC and PVDC are discarded, they can take up space in landfills, pollute the environment,⁵ and create additional hazards if they are burned or incinerated.²³

How can I reduce my exposure to PVC and PVDC?

Most products made with PVC or PVDC are not clearly labeled, so it can be difficult for people to avoid them completely. But there are steps you can take to reduce exposure where possible.

• Choose safer building materials when possible. Avoid PVC building materials such as luxury vinyl flooring, other PVC flooring, vinyl wall coverings, and vinyl siding when safer alternatives are available. Habitable’s Informed tool can help identify safer building materials.
• Reduce use of plastic food packaging. As a general practice, choose unpackaged or non-plastic packaged food and beverages when possible.
• Avoid plastic for food storage and cooking. Use glass, stainless steel, or other safer materials for storing, transporting, preparing, and heating food and beverages.
• Choose natural materials when possible. For example, choose a natural fiber shower curtain instead of a PVC vinyl shower curtain.
• Avoid PVC products for children when possible. Look for toys, school supplies, and office supplies that are not made with vinyl or PVC.

What’s the solution?

It is impossible for us to shop our way out of this problem. And we shouldn’t have to. When you walk into a store, you should be able to trust that the products on store shelves are safe.

Companies should stop using toxic plastics like PVC and PVDC products when safer materials are available, especially in products that can expose children, workers, communities, and families to hazardous chemicals.

Our state and federal governments should prevent harm before it happens by restricting the most hazardous plastics and chemicals, requiring safer alternatives, increasing transparency, and holding companies accountable for pollution across the full lifecycle of these materials.

The only way to protect everyone from toxic plastics like PVC and PVDC is to change policies at government and corporate levels so safer materials become the norm.

We’re fighting every day to protect you and your loved ones from toxic chemicals and toxic plastics. To join our fight, please consider making a donation, taking action with us, or signing up for our email list.