Our communities need to understand the full picture around the threat we face from plastics
WASHINGTON — On May 29th, 2025, GreenLatinos launched PVC Watch, a new online resource dedicated to exposing the health and environmental impacts of the production and use of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), one of the most commonly used synthetic plastics in the world. The website comes amid growing concerns from public health experts and government officials about the widespread presence of toxic chemicals and microplastics in our environment – and the harmful effects these substances have on the health of communities across the country.
The launch of the website follows the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announcement last year that it would review risks associated with vinyl chloride, a toxic chemical used in the making of PVC. Vinyl chloride is known to be a human carcinogen, and the EPA’s review could lead to restrictions or further bans on its use.
GreenLatinos Dr. Val Z. Schüll, Water Equity & Ocean Program Director, issued the following statement:
“PVC production is deeply embedded in the industrial landscape of the United States. Facilities scattered across almost every region of this country churn out this plastic at the cost of communities’ public and environmental health. The manufacturing of PVC threatens communities with toxic air, water contamination, elevated cancer risks, and the threat of major chemical spills.
PVC is not just a hazard during production. Cities facing water infrastructure challenges are increasingly opting for PVC pipes as an alternative to safer materials, especially in low-income areas where outdated lead pipes are being replaced. However, research shows these pipes can leach toxic vinyl chloride and other chemicals into drinking water over time. Chronic exposure to vinyl chloride increases the risk of cancer, contributes to birth defects, and can cause lasting neurological damage, creating a cycle of environmental pollution that already disproportionately impacts Latino/a/e communities and low-income families.
Thankfully, earlier this year, the EPA announced it is taking steps to thoroughly review vinyl chloride as a high priority substance under the Toxic Substances Control Act. This will help protect future generations from health risks from this carcinogen.
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About GreenLatinos
GreenLatinos (NOTE: GreenLatinos is ONE WORD) is an active comunidad of Latino/a/e leaders, emboldened by the power and wisdom of our culture, united to demand equity and dismantle racism, resourced to win our environmental, conservation, and climate justice battles, and driven to secure our political, economic, cultural, and environmental liberation.
