This week, we are focusing on Polycarbonate.

Never heard of it? Chances are, polycarbonate is all around you. Are you on your phone or computer? Did you get in a car today? Take a drink from a plastic water bottle, or store last night's leftovers in a plastic tupperware container? Ride on a plane recently (or maybe in 2019 before the world was turned upside down)? Are you sitting under a roof right now? Polycarbonate can be found in all these places. It almost seems impossible to avoid. But, have no fear, there are some simple steps you can take to avoid polycarbonate.

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The first trick is to learn how to SPOT IT:
Products containing polycarbonate are often labeled as number 7 or PC in a recycling logo. They are marketed as “shatterproof” items, and children's toys, plates and cups are often made from polycarbonates. How bad is polycarbonate?

HEALTH CONCERN: Polycarbonate contains BPA, which has been linked to prostate
and breast cancer, reproductive problems, diabetes, and obesity. How do we avoid polycarbonate in our program? We do our best to avoid plastic toys. We try to find toys made of natural materials like wood, cotton, wool, cork, rubber and metal. Once you shop with this mindset, it becomes second nature.

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SOLUTIONS AT HOME: To do the same thing in your home, look for number 7 or PC in a
recycling logo. If it has it, avoid it. Also stay away from toys or items labeled
as “shatterproof”. When possible, avoid plastic toys. Remember, "Numbers 7, 6 and 3 are NOT for
me!”

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Need some help finding products for your kids that are polycarbonate free? Take a gander in our fancy new shop.

Helen R. Walton Children’s Enrichment Center is a nonprofit. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, which supports our scholarship program. There is no additional cost to you.

Helen R. Walton Children’s Enrichment Center is a nonprofit. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, which supports our scholarship program. There is no additional cost to you.

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