The Hidden Dangers of Plastic Flooring and Why Real Wood is a Better Choice
Keith Troyer
There are no vinyl trees. There is no plastic forest.
If you are like most people, you probably thought that the use of toxic, carcinogenic chemicals like asbestos and mercury was outlawed years ago. However, there are unfortunate loopholes that allow these chemicals to be used in chlorine production for PVC, which is used in vinyl flooring manufacturing.
Understanding the Impact of PVC Flooring
A recent report from the Center for Environmental Health sheds light on the significant environmental and health risks associated with polyvinyl chloride (PVC) flooring. PVC, often used for its durability and cost-effectiveness, comes with hidden dangers that every architect, interior designer, and home builder should be aware of.
Key Takeaways from the Report
Underreported Emissions: The Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) for PVC flooring often underreport the actual carbon emissions, especially for materials produced in China.
Toxic Chemicals: The manufacturing process of PVC flooring involves hazardous chemicals such as PFAS, mercury, and asbestos, posing severe health risks.
PFAS Exposure: PFAS chemicals, used in PVC production, are toxic and persist in the environment, leading to long-term health risks.
Environmental and Health Risks: The production shift to China has increased the carbon footprint due to coal reliance, and exposure to toxic substances during manufacturing poses significant occupational hazards.
Need for Transparency: There is a strong call for improved transparency in EPDs and better regulations to mitigate these impacts.
Implications for Professionals
Interior designers, home builders, and architects should prioritize choosing eco-friendly flooring alternatives and educating clients about the risks associated with PVC flooring. By avoiding plastic materials, they can reduce the carbon footprint and exposure to toxic substances, ensuring safer construction practices. Incorporating sustainable and healthier building materials not only adheres to regulatory compliance but also promotes a healthier living environment. Advocating for transparency in material sourcing and supporting policies that mitigate environmental and health impacts is crucial for building a sustainable future.
Why Real Wood Flooring is a Superior Choice
Real wood flooring stands out as a sustainable and healthier alternative to PVC. Here’s why you should consider real wood:
Natural and Safe: Wood does not involve the toxic chemicals required in PVC production.
Sustainable: When sourced responsibly, wood is a renewable resource with a lower environmental impact.
Aesthetic Appeal: Wood flooring offers unique and timeless beauty and can enhance the value of any space.
Taking Action
To build healthier and more sustainable environments, it’s crucial to move away from PVC flooring and embrace real wood alternatives. By making informed choices, advocating for transparency, and supporting eco-friendly practices, we can collectively reduce the negative impacts on our planet and health.
Remember: Your choices as architects, designers, and builders play a significant role in shaping a healthier future. Let’s choose wisely and prioritize real wood flooring for the betterment of our clients and the environment.
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