To determine whether toys sold in Tunisia contain high levels of dangerous heavy metals, Association pour la Protection de l'Environnement et Developpement Durable de Bizerte (APEDDUB) had samples of 24 toys commonly found in schools and markets in the city of Bizarte analyzed. Results showed that most toys contained heavy metals. In addition, although both non-Poly Vinyl Chloride (PVC) and PVC made toys contained high levels of lead and cadmium, toys made with PVC have significantly higher levels of these heavy metals and therefore are far more toxic. Results were shared during an “informative” day with relevant stakeholders, which spurred these doctors, educators, and regulators to action. The Ministry of Education, Child and Family, Health, Industry, and Environment all contributed to an abstract to share with regional institutions implicated in children's education. Additionally, they agreed with recommendations that children's educators should meet regularly, alternatives to toxic toys should be sought, and annual testing and reporting should be conducted.
