Vinyl Under Attack: An Update from the Vinyl Institute

Judith Nordgren of the Vinyl Institute spoke during a meeting of the American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) Vinyl Materials Council, providing an update on all of the ways the green movement has in some cases led to an attack on vinyl products in recent months and years. The presentation was held during AAMA's fall conference in San Antonio.

One example Nordgren gave was that, at one point, Wal-Mart announced it would no longer use PVC packaging.

"We're very far removed from these guys making the decisions," she told her audience, which was left with standing room only. "I implore you to implore your salespeople out there meeting with customers to make sure they're answering these questions [about vinyl]."

After Wal-Mart made this announcement, Nordgren said that the Center for Health, Environmental and Justice went after other retailers, such as Target, Sears, Wegman's, Costco and J.C. Penney and encouraged them to take a similar path.

"An attack on any PVC material is an attack on all of us," she warned.

She added, "Lately, we see all chemicals, all plastics, under attack."

In an effort to educate even students on vinyl and its benefits, the Vinyl Institute has formed a design competition for students using vinyl.

Nordgren also reminded attendees that when "green" is an issue for a customer, it's important to focus on life-cycle analysis.

"I won't say [vinyl is] green but I say it's sustainable," she said.

She also noted that the Green Globes program looks favorably on vinyl.

"If you're not a member of Green Globes, or GBI, I encourage you to join," Nordgren added.

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