There are many factors to consider when choosing a building or decorating material. And for good reason! The February 2023 train derailment and chemical spill that took place in East Palestine, Ohio, raised questions and concerns about the effects of chemicals—like vinyl chloride and the products made from them—in relation to our physical health and the health of our environment.

The Concern is Real!

Linked to cancer of the liver, brain, lungs, and blood, vinyl chloride is used to make a variety of plastics, including PVC (polymer polyvinyl chloride), a primary component used to make resilient and vinyl flooring—as well as cabinets, doors, window frames, mouldings, and other household items. And every day, millions of consumers unknowingly put their families at risk when they bring wood-look alternatives and plastic products made with vinyl chloride, into their homes.

Make the Healthy Choice!

Real American Hardwood® products do not jeopardize human health or the environment. And that’s because they are made using natural, sustainable materials that contribute to the overall health of our planet and its residents. Wood-look plastic products cannot say the same.

So, to the design/build community, if the health and environmental implications of home product choices are a concern for your customers, point them to real wood products, not wood-look alternatives. Learn more at RealAmericanHardwood.com.

Real American Hardwood® is a registered trademark of the Real American Hardwood Coalition.