Polyvinyl chloride is the world's third-most widely produced synthetic plastic polymer, after polyethylene and polypropylene. About 40 million tonnes are produced per year. PVC comes in two basic forms: rigid and flexible.

PET, which stands for polyethylene terephthalate, is a form of polyester (just like the clothing fabric). It is extruded or moulded into plastic bottles and containers for packaging foods and beverages, personal care products, and many other consumer products.