In today’s world of growing environmental concerns and increasing regulations, the common thermoplastic and fluorocarbon insulations mentioned also present serious environmental limitations that should be considered before selecting them for an application. While PVC insulation may be a cost saver in the industry, this compound pays a big price in its environmental disadvantages. PVC base resin, plasticizers, stabilizers and fillers, which are all commonly found in PVC insulation, have been linked to increased cancer risk. The top insulations also contain halogens, which are elements such as fluorine, chlorine, and bromine. These elements are highly reactive and can be harmful to people and animals. A halogenated plastic can release hydrogen chloride, hydrogen fluoride and other dangerous gases when burned. Aside from its toxicity to humans and animals, these gases are also highly corrosive to metal. “Low-smoke, zero halogen” cables have thwarted the concerns of using dangerous halogens, however they still exhibit their own environmental limitations. LSZH cannot be conveniently recycled and reused. Like PVC insulation, it will not safely decompose in a landfill. With all of this in mind, why are halogenated plastics still being widely used today? For years, non-halogen insulation compounds have been seen in the industry as inferior in chemical and physical properties. This presentation will review these misconceptions on the next slide.