In September 2004, after 5 years of debate, the European Union finally agreed to ban "phthalates" in some children’s toys.  These are used to soften toys made of otherwise rigid PVC plastic, Phthalates bio accumulate and have been found in body tissue and breast milk.  Research in animals has shown phthalates can cause liver damage, birth defects and damage to the reproductive system at low exposure levels.  EU ministers agreed to ban three phthalates, DEHP, DBP and BBP from all toys and childcare articles.   Three other phthalates DINP, DIDP and DNOP will be banned from use in toys intended for children under three years of age and which could be placed in their mouth.   

Even with this legislation in place, many children's toys are manufactured in the Far East, and it is going to be difficult to control toys coming into Europe and determine whether or not they contain phthalates.  A range of other toxic chemicals can be found in children’s toys, the label “non-toxic” on a child’s toy does not mean that product is truly safe for your child.  PVC requires the addition of more toxic additives than any other major plastic on the market and is used extensively in toys and games.  To produce a finished vinyl product, a variety of chemicals are added, these additives are generally not bound strongly into the plastic and can be released when the product is used.   Research carried out by Greenpeace has shown that plasticisers and stabilisers added to PVC pose unnecessary health risks to children. Nonylphenol is also used in the manufacture of PVC, a study in 2002 found that nonylphenol can damage the DNA of glands that produce antibodies to fight off diseases.

The safest alternative is to avoid all PVC toys, buying eco-friendly, green toys and games provides the peace of mind that children are not being exposed to these harmful chemicals at a vulnerable age.   There are many suppliers of green toys made from natural, child friendly materials, these include wooden toys from sustainable forests, organic cotton toys and recycled paper toys.  Often made by small businesses, eco-friendly toys are an excellent way to support traditional crafts, protect the environment and of course, protect your child from exposure to harmful chemicals.

http://www.greenpeace.org.uk/ - campaigning for a safer world for us all.