Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) is a synthetic polymer that is water-soluble and typically used for various industrial and commercial applications. It is made by the polymerization of vinyl acetate monomers, which are then partially hydrolyzed to create the water-soluble PVA polymer. PVA is known for its excellent film-forming and adhesive properties, as well as its ability to dissolve in water, making it useful in applications such as:

1. Adhesives and Glues: PVA is commonly used as a component in various adhesives, especially in woodworking and paper industries.

2. Textile Industry: It is used as a sizing agent for textiles, helping to improve their stability during weaving and processing.

3. Paper Industry: PVA is utilized in paper coatings to enhance the paper's surface properties, such as gloss and printability.

4. Packaging: PVA can be used as a packaging material for products that need to be soluble in water, like single-dose detergent pods.

5. Construction Industry: PVA-based formulations are used as additives in cement and mortar to enhance their workability and adhesion.

6. Medical Applications: PVA can be found in certain medical and pharmaceutical applications, such as in the production of capsules and as a component in certain wound dressings.

In terms of environmental friendliness, PVA is considered relatively safe and non-toxic. It is biodegradable in water, meaning that it can break down over time into simpler, harmless compounds. However, its environmental impact depends on how it is used and disposed of:

- Water Solubility: PVA's water solubility can be an advantage in some applications, as it can dissolve and leave behind minimal waste. However, it can also be a drawback if products made from PVA end up in water bodies, as they can contribute to pollution.

- Biodegradability: PVA is biodegradable, but the rate of degradation depends on factors like temperature, microbial activity, and the presence of other chemicals. In some environments, degradation might be slower than desired.

- Disposal: Proper disposal of PVA-based products is important. If products containing PVA are discarded in landfills or natural environments, they can take a considerable amount of time to break down. Ideally, polyvinyl alcohol products should be disposed of in environments where they can readily come into contact with water and degrade more quickly.

In summary, PVA is a versatile polymer with various applications, and its environmental friendliness largely depends on how it's used, disposed of, and whether proper recycling or waste management practices are followed.