PVC (also known as
vinyl), a plastic widely used in packaging, home
furnishings, children’s toys, automobile parts, building materials
and hospital supplies, has been linked to a number of health and
environmental problems. In a meeting environment, says Lisa
Finaldi, campaigns director for Washington, D.C.-based Greenpeace
USA, PVC is likely to be found in the following items.
* Three-ring binders
and notebooks. Instead, use nylon-coated, hard plastic or cardboard
binders;
* Trade show display
modules, which can be made of metal coated with PVC;
* Trade show
giveaways, including standard promotional items such as flexible
magnets and soft plastic key chains. A better idea: any gizmo or
gift made of natural nontoxic materials;
* Carpeting and
carpet-backing material, as well as vinyl flooring. According to
Finaldi, both types of coverings are used in large buildings such
as hotels and convention centers, because they are inexpensive and
easy to maintain. The only way to avoid these toxins is to choose a
different venue.