In the recent report prepared by the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA), PVC It confirms the toxicity of some of the elements that make up this compound, which is common in a large number of objects and materials in daily use and provides a Urgent action by the European Commission to restrict this material.
this is plastic Contains toxic additives such as phthalatesIt is associated with hormonal changes even at very low concentrations. According to experts, the potential carcinogenic effects of PVC are another threat arising from the many substances released by this material.
The report made public by ECHA not only confirms fears about the serious effects of PVC on human health and the environment, but also acknowledges that there are safer alternatives to replace this plastic.
Considering this decision, a total of 67 non-governmental organizations from all over Europe, under the leadership of the European Environmental Bureau (EBB), appealed to the European Commission and requested that this decision be taken. Eliminate PVC before 2030on the grounds that it is a “harmful plastic with harmful consequences for health and the environment.”
They call for PVC to be banned by 2030
In particular, the Commission should, as soon as possible, “take a Ambitious restrictions on the production, use and marketing of PVC and additives“covered by the REACH regulation, which regulates chemicals in the EU, in all sectors.”
Carlos de Prada, the person responsible for the Toxic-Free Home initiative, says: “A worrying aspect of PVC is that a very noticeable percentage of its weight may be additives such as phthalates, which are substances that are not chemically bonded to the structure of the PVC plastic and are therefore gradually released.” They are being let go. This makes Can be inhaled through indoor air and household dust”.
Kristiñe García, spokesperson for the field of toxic substances at Ecologistas en Acción, says: “99% of Europeans analyzed today have phthalates in their bodiesAs data from the European Human Biomonitoring Initiative shows. “Some of these synthetic substances have been associated with hormonal alteration effects that can occur at very low concentrations.”
Ubiquitous material
PVC is present in countless everyday products. From toys to packaging, medical instruments, construction materials, floors and other indoor surface coverings or drinking water pipes.
The European Environment Office, which brings together more than 180 conservation organizations from across Europe, reminds us that there is scientific evidence showing that “PVC use causes significant health and environmental problems at all stages of its life cycle.”
According to BEV, PVC is a plastic that causes serious problems during its production and subsequent disposal as waste. During the production and production of raw materials, substances hazardous to the population and workers. These include some carcinogenssuch as ethylene dichloride, vinyl chloride monomer, dioxins, heavy metals and asbestos.
Christine Hermann, deputy chemicals policy officer at the European Environment Office, said: “Policymakers have long been aware of the dangers of PVC, but they postponed actions again and again. “We hope that EU officials will now implement what they promised in the Chemical Strategy for Sustainability: action on PVC.”
full report of ECHA this link.
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Contact address of the environmental department:[email protected]