In 2024, Gladys Ly-Au Young (Side x Side Architects) and Megan Liu (Toxic Free Future) advocated to Washington State Department of Ecology the need to regulate the use of PVC in building materials. PVC's prevalence is as much an environmental issue as it is a justice issue. According to Toxic Free Future, pollution sources and contaminated sites are concentrated in BIPOC communities, and the harmful effects of toxic materials are most commonly experienced by residents in affordable housing. Toxic exposures can add to other major stressors, such as poverty and racial discrimination.
The construction sector uses most of all PVC made: 69% of total PVC production (Geyer). Unfortunately, PVC in the construction sector is also increasing at an alarming rate. A 250% increase is projected from 2019 to 2060 (plastic in general is also seeing a 250% increase during this same period [OECD]). And contrary to common assumptions, most of our plastic waste is not recycled. Only 9.3% of all plastic is recycled, leaving 90.7% to be discarded in various environments. 15.3% of non-recycled plastic becomes incinerated, which creates dangerous dioxins. 75.4% of non-recycled plastic heads to land fills and oceans, creating detrimental harm to our environment and our people.
Moving away from plastics and PVC in affordable housing materials, such as flooring products, is a step towards climate action, social justice, and healthier communities. For non PVC and resilient flooring options for affordable housing projects, see the product matrix below.
Image above: Westside School Pre-K marmoleum floors
*In any case which SxS resources are referenced, please credit Side x Side Architects and all editors and reviewers listed on this page.
