From Rubber Duckies to Agent Orange:

The Dangers of PVC Products

November 6, 2010 - Campus initiative aims to reduce use of dangerous plastics

Did you spot a huge blow-up canvas duck on Ho Plaza this Tuesday? It was the Society for Natural Resource Conservation (SNRC) raising awareness about the beginning of their PVC-free campaign.

On Nov. 2, SNRC hosted a series of events to recognize their effort to phase out PVC-use at the University. Polyvinyl chloride plastic (PVC) – one of the most commonly used plastics in the world – is used to make shower curtains, pipes and children’s rubber ducks along with many other products.

“PVC is especially harmful because it releases toxins throughout its existence – during production [and] use, as well as disposal,” said Abigail Wessel ’13, the club’s publicity coordinator.

At Goldwin Smith Hall’s Kaufman Auditorium, the club showed three films: “Toxic America,” “Blue Vinyl,” and “Sam Suds.” Working in conjunction with the Center for Health, Environment, and Justice – a national organization starting their own campaign to spark activism on college campuses – the club hopes to gain momentum by gathering support from students and other on campus organizations. {read rest}