Tony Del Plato and Margaret McCasland

The local Target store at the Pyramid Mall in Lansing was itself the target of local activists Tony Del Plato and Margaret McCasland earlier this month. The two donned hazmat protective gear to bring to customers' attention the fact that Target still stocks merchandise made out of or packaged in polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a known carcinogen.

According to the Center for Health, Environment and Justice, toxic chemicals used in the production of PVC are released in gaseous form from products such as vinyl toys and shower curtains. These chemicals, they say, are dangerous to the health of anyone exposed, whether in the factory, the home or in proximity to trash containing PVC.

Many major companies have committed to phasing out the use of PVC products and packaging. They include Wal-Mart, Nike and Microsoft. Del Plato and McCasland asked Target customers to pressure the corporation into taking similar action.

In response, Target released a written statement stating that it "is committed to exploring alternatives to PVC", but that further research is needed to "understand the availability of alternatives and suitability for mass production applications."

More info:

PVC: The Poison Plastic: http://www.besafenet.com/pvc/

Coop America has an action page about Target, with contact info: http://www.coopamerica.org/programs/rs/profile.cfm?id=295