Glossary of Terms and Acronyms
CFCs = Chlorofluorcarbon is a compound of industrial origin used in refridgerants, propellants for spray cans (banned in the U.S.) and for blowing plastic-foam insulation, styrofoam packaging, and solvents for cleaning electronic circuit boards. CFC’s ability to destroy stratospheric ozone through catalytic cycles is contributing to the depletion of ozone worldwide.
Heavy Metals = any metallic chemical element that has a relatively high density and its toxic or poisonous at low concentrations. Examples of heavy metals include mercury, cadmium, arsenic, chromium, thallium and lead.
HFCFCs = Hydrocholorfluorcarbon is used as CFC substitute. HCFCs release chlorine and have significantly contributed to atmospheric chlorine buildup.
Hexavalent Chrome = known carcinogen.
ISO 9000 = "Quality management". This means what the organization does to fulfil:
the customer's quality requirements, and
applicable regulatory requirements, while aiming to
enhance customer satisfaction, and
achieve continual improvement of its performance in pursuit of these objectives.
ISO 14000 = "Environmental management". This means what the organization does to:
minimize harmful effects on the environment caused by its activities, and to achieve continual improvement of its environmental performance.
PBDEs = Polybrominated Diphenylethers, a class of toxic chemicals (BFRs – bromindated flame retardants) used as a flame retardant in plastics, foams, fabrics, and other materials
POPs = persistent organic pollutants are organic compounds used in pesticides, solvents, PVC and pharmaceuticals
PVC = Polyvinyl chloride or more commonly known as vinyl. Not biodegradable or degradable and it produces dioxin (one of the deadliest man-made poisons) when incinerated.