Toys’R'Us to Begin Ridding Shelves of Toys Containing Toxic PVC Plastic

Today Toys”R”Us announced a new policy to reduce polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic, phthalates, and lead in children’s and infant toys. The company is reducing PVC use and is moving towards a goal of offering PVC-free products. They also announced that by the end of 2008, juvenile products must be produced without the addition of phthalates. In a separate statement, Wal-Mart announced the company is also requiring suppliers to phase out phthalates in children’s toys. Toys”R”Us is the latest major retailer to adopt a goal to reduce its use of PVC.

“Toys”R”Us’ new PVC-free goal is good news for our children’s health, safety, and well being,” said Michael Schade, PVC Campaign Coordinator with the Center for Health, Environment and Justice. “PVC toxic toys often contain dangerous chemicals such as phthalates and lead. These toxic chemicals have no place in our children’s toys and should be eliminated from store shelves everywhere they are currently sold so that no potential harm comes to any child who might otherwise come into contact with them. We call on Toys”R”Us to take the next step by setting clear benchmarks and timeframes for phasing out toxic PVC toys in order to prevent harm to our children’s health.”

CHEJ joined SEIU, Working Families Party, and other organizations at media events in October and December calling on Toys R Us to phase out PVC and other harmful chemicals in their toys.

Advancing its mission to prevent health-related harm to individuals and the environment, CHEJ has been campaigning vigorously to educate retailers and the public about the dangers associated with PVC plastic in toys, packaging, and other consumer products. Toys”R”Us is joining a growing list of dozens of companies including Target, Wal-Mart, Sears, Kmart, Microsoft, Johnson & Johnson, Nike, and Apple that are eliminating or reducing its PVC products and packaging.

Source: Center for Health, Environment & Justice

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