PVC as a building material is no more harmful to the environment than other materials, according to a CSIRO report commissioned by the Plastics and Chemicals Industry Association (PACIA).

"CSIRO was asked to carry out the study without any editorial or other input from PACIA or any companies involved in the industry," said Dr Neil Galbraith, Assistant Chief of the CSIRO Division of Chemicals and Polymers. "We were selected as 'honest broker', because of our reputation for scientific integrity. The report is intended to contribute to a more balanced public debate.

"The balance of reputable scientific evidence does not support the contention that PVC is a major environmental contaminant," said Dr Galbraith. "It is clear from the report that it would be unreasonable to eliminate PVC as a building material."

Dr Galbraith said however that the report found there were several areas which require further study, because the available evidence was either inconclusive or contradictory. The role of chemicals called phthalates, used in the manufacture of flexible PVC, needed further study, he said.

Other areas where more study is necessary are emissions from PVC in building fires, and the ultimate fate of metals used as stabilisers.

The most common uses of PVC as a building material is in floor covering, waste water piping, and cable insulation.

The study was based on international research reported in seventy-five scientific papers and publications by Government agencies and universities.

It was launched by Science Minister Peter McGauran in Canberra today.

More information from: Dr Neil Galbraith 03-95422647
Copies of the Report available from Nick Goldie 06-2766478