Final answer:
The statement 'False, PVC is toxic when burned' is actually true; PVC releases toxic chemicals when burned. Controlled incineration can reduce these emissions, while improper disposal of fluorocarbon-containing materials can harm aquatic life.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement 'False, PVC is toxic when burned' is true. Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) releases toxic chemicals when it is burned. Some of the toxic substances emitted from burning PVC include dioxins, which are persistent environmental pollutants with health risks. Open burning of PVC, and other materials containing chlorine, can lead to the release of these hazardous compounds.
In contrast, incineration of polymeric materials under controlled conditions can effectively reduce the emission of toxic chemicals. This is because controlled incineration can reach high enough temperatures and have emissions treatment systems to neutralize or capture the dangerous compounds before they are released into the atmosphere.
Furthermore, when products containing fluorocarbons, such as Teflon-coated materials, break down, they can release perfluorooctane sulfonate, which damages aquatic life. Therefore, the correct handling and disposal of these substances are important to minimize environmental impact and health hazards.