Try to avoid plastic whenever you can. While we agree that it is the only choice for many things because of it's strength, flexibility, cost, weight and water resistance... many plastics are directly related to chemical pollutants in our environment. Their main components are petrol chemicals and natural gas.... so they have a direct impact on greenhouse gases, The ugliest big-bad of the plastic world is PVC. In order to have that soft pliability.... they contain phthalates. These softeners are endocrine disruptors and have been shown to cause cancer, affect the liver and reproductive organs and disrupt many other hormone functions.
Replace that plastic shower liner with one from IKEA...they are pvc free!!! For other products...If you are unsure.... look on the bottom. Items made with PVC should (I said SHOULD) be marked with a number 3 and a triangle. If in doubt....if it smells like those plastic summer beach toys or new car... don't buy it. Don't let it off gas in your house. Don't let your dog or your child play with it, sleep on it, or chew on it. There are many other options out there now such as the West Paw Design Zogoflex toys. They are made from natural materials and are completely non toxic and made in the US.