We’ve discussed polyvinyl chloride (PVC) here before (PVC? OMG) and the inherent health dangers associated with exposure to it. PVC, also referred to as vinyl, is found everywhere today. Look at any child’s playroom or open their school backpack and you’ll find a plastic explosion of products designed to educate and entertain children…but, at what price?
PVC is the most toxic plastic for children’s health and the environment. And, it’s not just exposure to the chemicals after the fact; the production of PVC products releases a cornucopia of toxic chemicals into the air we breathe including: dioxins, phthalates, mercury, PCBs, vinyl chloride, chlorine gas and numerous other substances harmful to our health. Um, ew! Not exactly how we want to be treating our future generation. According to the great peeps at the Center for Health and Environmental Justice (CHEJ), ‘Scientists have found certain vinyl chemicals linked to asthma, cancer, birth defects, learning and developmental disabilities, obesity, diabetes and other preventable chronic diseases on the rise.’ Again, not nice. What happened to the Golden Rule: Do Unto Others As You Would Have Them Do Unto You?
If you think this isn’t affecting your kiddo, think again! Independent studies conducted last year revealed these nasty chemicals linked to asthma and birth defects were ubiquitous in children’s vinyl school products.
‘75% of children’s “back-to-school” supplies tested in a laboratory had elevated levels of toxic phthalates, including popular Disney branded school supplies such as vinyl lunchboxes, backpacks, 3-ring binders, raincoats, and rain boots’. ~CHEJ
Hmm, not sure about you, but when I’m wishin’ upon a star, it certainly ain’t for kids to be burdened by a toxic body burden in the name of greed, profit and chemical negligence. Lunchboxes, binders, backpacks, clothing, paperclips, electronics and art supplies –oh, my! So, what is a concerned parent to do to protect their little prides and joys?! For starters, get educated and empower yourself to make wiser purchases. Don’t worry ‘cuz CHEJ has done all the hard work for you by creating – not one – but TWO awesome guides to help you purchase PVC-free school supplies.
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1.) Get the Back-to-School Guide to PVC-Free School Supplies here:
2.) Get the Back-to-School Wallet Guide to PVC-Free School Supplies here:
Oh, and speaking of the Golden Rule…the manufacturers may not be adhering to this, but that shouldn’t stop us! Help spread the word by sharing this post with other parents who you know would benefit. And, if your budget allows, show CHEJ how much you appreciate their work by donating (100% tax deductable) so they can continue testing more kids products! Got a tip for safer back-to-school products? Let us know below in the comments section.
Here is another great resource for green school, office + art supplies: http://greenapplesupply.org/shop-green/school-office-supplies#sthash.d9liUvIe.dpbs
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