As the world’s 3rd most relied-upon plastic, there are many reasons why PVC has become so common, mainly due to its rigidity, which has given birth to vinyl. Vinyl has become a popular option for visual communication and graphics. Wall murals are using vinyl are now common in offices, hospitals, hotels and even in homeplaces.
Do we know the drawbacks of PVC and is it environmentally safe?
It is well-known that plastics are harmful to the environment. But PVC is in fact one of the worst. The manufacturing process for PVC uses toxins and plasticizers, which are harmful to our health and the environment. The production and disposal of PVC release a number of chemical by-products, such as dioxins, that can enter the atmosphere, groundwater or soil. Dioxins can cause severe health damage as they are highly toxic and are the most dangerous man-made carcinogen.
Can we recycle PVC?
In principle, PVC is recyclable. Yet, most recycling facilities do not accept PVC because it contaminates other reusable plastics during the process. Alternatively, PVC cannot be incinerated. Burning PVC releases too many dangerous chemicals and is not permitted in most countries. The last option with PVC is landfill, which does not show such obvious negative effects but releases harmful chemicals into the environment. PVC decomposition in landfills will emit dioxins, chlorine, mercury and pose serious leakage problems.
What solutions/alternatives do we have?
PVC-free vinyl and wallpaper are trying to solve this problem. PVC-free vinyl does not emit toxins and harmful chemicals as standard vinyl does and meets health standards according to Greenguard Gold standards – making it perfect for sensitive areas with children, elderly and healthcare. It is safer than PVC vinyl for manufacturers, installers, users and the environment.
PVC-free vinyl still provides high-quality graphics and high-definition detail and colours. It is equally easy to install and remove and has the same life expectancy as standard vinyl.
What are the benefits of using PVC-free vinyl?
The benefits are two-fold. PVC-free vinyl is better for people’s health and to the environment. It does not contain the same harmful chemicals as standard vinyl, making it better and safer for human health and much easier to recycle or dispose of.
Not only is it Greenguard Gold Certified, but it is also referenced by both The Collaborative for High-Performance Schools (CHPS) and the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Building Rating System.
PVC-free vinyl in Modulex Billund
At our factory in Billund, we have over 40 years of expertise with vinyl and environmental graphics. In our commitment to make our assortment more sustainable and safer for our customers, we have been offering a growing selection of PVC-free vinyl and wallpapers for the past four years which can be ordered through customer service and will soon be available in our Web One Tool (WOT).
