A great new tool to get toxic PVC out of our schools!

Our nation’s schools are in trouble—toxic chemicals that leave children too sick to learn are lurking in them.  Many schools in the United States are literally made out of the toxic plastic polyvinyl chloride—otherwise known as PVC or vinyl—which is found in vinyl flooring, computers, vinyl backpacks, and other school supplies. Congress has already banned these phthalates in children's toys yet they are still widespread in PVC products like these. In fact, research has linked the pthalates in PVC to asthma in children and adults. This is especially troubling since Oregon has the second highest rates of asthma in the country—and asthma is the leading cause of school absenteeism.

And the problem doesn't end there. Over the course of its lifecycle, PVC releases dioxin, lead and mercury—all chemicals that are linked to learning and developmental disabilities in young children.  With one in six children suffering from learning disabilities, it's time to get PVC out of our classrooms so that our children have a better chance to actually learn.

Getting rid of PVC in our schools is now easier than ever, thanks to The Center for Health, Environment & Justice brand new interactive website, This Vinyl School, which helps you uncover all the sources of vinyl in your children's school and suggest safer alternatives. 

All it takes is a few simple changes to protect our school children's health—and their ability to learn.