Polyvinyl chloride (PVC), also known as Vinyl, is an extremely common and inexpensive plastic popular for it’s strength and water resistance. As a building material, PVC is commonly utilized to create siding, windows, flooring, wiring, cables, piping, and roofing. It’s also one of the most toxic and least recyclable plastics available. 

During it’s manufacturing, burning, and landfilling, chlorine molecules in PVC are heated to high temperatures “releasing toxic chemicals known as dioxins. Dioxins persist in the body for years after exposure” and are known to cause cancer, “reproductive disorders, and hormone disruption… They have been called the most toxic man-made substance ever created.”

PVC also contains toxic additives such as phthalates, which are released with standard wear. “Researchers have linked phthalates to asthma, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, breast cancer, obesity and type II diabetes, low IQ, neurodevelopmental issues, behavioral issues, autism spectrum disorders, altered reproductive development and male fertility issues.” Despite widely accepted research documenting the harmful effects of PVC, its still widely utilized as a building material due to its availability, low price point, and versatility as a building material.  

Thankfully, there are natural, nontoxic, and renewable material alternatives to PVC based building materials.While alternatives might be more expensive, they don’t contaminate buildings or surrounding ecology (including soil and water) with persistent and highly toxic chemicals. Alternatives to consider include plant-derived and ethically sourced latex, with various other natural alternatives depending on the application. Whenever possible, utilize materials that don’t contain vinyl (PVC) in your next building or construction project.