Just as back-to-school shopping kicks into high gear, Environmental Defence has released a PVC-Free School Supply guide.

Polyvinyl chloride (also known as PVC, or vinyl) is used to make a lot of back-to-school products. PVC is a concern because it has dangerous chemical additives, including phthalates, lead, and cadmium. These chemicals may evaporate or leech out of PVC products, and may contribute to developmental disorders and damage of the liver, central nervous, respiratory and reproductive systems. Recent studies have linked PVC flooring in the home to increased rates of autism and asthma in children.

Canada recently announced that it will set limits on phthalates in vinyl toys and products such as teethers and rattles. However, the limits do not affect children's school supplies and other phthalate-containing PVC products used or worn by children.

The good news is there are lots of school supplies that don't use PVC. That's where the guide comes in. Published by US-based Center for Health, Environment and Justice (CHEJ), the guide helps you choose safer, PVC-free supplies. Many of the safer alternatives listed (including brand-name food and beverage containers, backpacks, computers, shoes, and some writing supplies) can be easily found on store shelves across Canada.

"This guide was created to help parents make informed choices when it comes to back-to-school shopping by suggesting alternatives and offering tips," says Dr. Rick Smith, Executive Director of Environmental Defence. "Given that many safer PVC-free products are available, parents should try to avoid products made of this chemical concoction wherever possible."

Follow this general advice when hitting the stores this summer:

• Look for non-plastic products whenever possible
• Steer clear of products labelled with the words "vinyl" on the packaging (e.g., vinyl 3-ring binders)
• Don't purchase products with the #3 recycling symbol, or with the letters "V" or "PVC" underneath the recycling symbol (remember that bad news comes in #3's, don't buy PVC)
• Call or email the manufacturer or retailer and ask what type of plastic their product is made of if you are uncertain - you have a right to know.

Download the full report (2.5 mb)

Download the wallet guide (400 kb)

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Source: http://environmentaldefence.ca/reports/PVC_free_2009.html