Target agrees to reduce PVC use

NEW YORK Target announced today that it has agreed to systematically reduce its use of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic, commonly known as vinyl. The company is reducing PVC found in many of its products including infant products, children's toys, shower curtains, packaging and fashion accessories. PVC products commonly contain toxic additives such as lead and phthalates and are often made in China.

Other companies that have already pledged to eliminate or reduce PVC use include Wal-Mart, Microsoft, Johnson & Johnson, Nike, and Apple that are eliminating or reducing its PVC products and packaging. Wal-Mart just reached its two-year deadline to eliminate PVC from the packaging of its private brand products.

According to Target, it will reduce PVC beginning with their owned brands. It will also work with other vendors and suppliers whose products are sold at Target.

"Since millions of toxic toys were recalled, parents are now looking for safer products for their children. Companies should ensure that customers are not rolling the dice with their families' health in the check out aisle. Target is doing the right thing by moving away from PVC and switching to safer alternatives," said Lois Gibbs, executive director of the Center for Health, Environment and Justice.