A TID BIT ON ACRYLIC PLASTIC and FOLLOW-UP ON SHOWER CURTAINS

In trying to do some research on plastic, I was especially interested in learning more about acrylic. I haven't heard much on that type of plastic and wondered if this was a "safer" plastic. This is the information I found on how it is made, needless to say I won't be purchasing those cute acrylic glasses:

"Acrylic plastics manufacturing involves highly toxic substances which require careful storage, handling, and disposal. The polymerization process can result in an explosion if not monitored properly. It also produces toxic fumes. Recent legislation requires that the polymerization process be carried out in a closed environment and that the fumes be cleaned, captured, or otherwise neutralized before discharge to the atmosphere.

Acrylic plastic is not easily recycled. It is considered a group 7 plastic among recycled plastics and is not collected for recycling in most communities. Large pieces can be reformed into other useful objects if they have not suffered too much stress, crazing, or cracking, but this accounts for only a very small portion of the acrylic plastic waste. In a landfill, acrylic plastics, like many other plastics, are not readily biodegradable. Some acrylic plastics are highly flammable and must be protected from sources of combustion." Information from Answers.com

Also to follow-up on the information on shower curtains IKEA carries a great alternative, PETA which is a PVC alternative. IKEA is great for less expensive products that aim to be environmentally conscious.