Several local governments have adopted policies to reduce or eliminate PVC products.
by Mairi Beautyman

Milliken Floor Covering recently released figures showcasing the current results of its battle against polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Since 1986, the flooring manufacturer has removed more than 800 million pounds of polyvinyl chloride, or PVC, from production. Some 100,000 garbage trucks, the manufacturer reports, would be needed to carry that load to landfill.

In 1986, noting emerging concerns about PVC as a threat to the environment and public health, Milliken introduced PVC-free carpet. Now, several local governments—including municipalities in California, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, and Washington—have adopted policies to reduce or eliminate PVC products. In addition, medical associations in California, Chicago, Maine, and Minnesota are actively seeking alternatives to disposable PVC products.

The firm’s PVC-free Comfort Plus modular carpet line, released in 1989, was the first to have a polyurethane cushion backing. The backing is both more sustainable and more durable—extending carpet life up to 50 percent by absorbing wear.

"Milliken pioneered this change in chemistries from PVC backing in 1986 because it was the right step for the Earth, and it challenged Milliken to develop more sustainable innovations,” says Bill Gregory, director of sustainable strategies for Milliken Floor Covering.

Milliken Floor Covering, an international manufacturer of modular and broadloom carpets and rugs based in LaGrange, Georgia, is a division Milliken & Company.