50 years ago, some of plastic’s toxic hazards were exposed

Excerpt from the September 7, 1974 issue of Science News

A stack of PVC pipe lies in front of workers.

Vinyl chloride is a key ingredient in a widely used plastic. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has proposed a review of the chemical’s safety and environmental data that could result in stricter regulations or even a ban of its use.

kali9/E+/Getty Images

Cover of Science News for Sept. 7, 1974

Toxic surprises from the plastics industry Science