Benefits of Recycling PVC

Over the last half-century, PVC has become one of the most prevalent construction materials used, especially among developed nations. Identified by its recycling code (plastic #3), PVC is the second most commonly used plastic after polyethylene.

Here are some benefits to recycling PVC:

• The manufacturing of PVC requires the largest single use of chlorine gas in the world (roughly 40 percent of total chlorine production or 16 million pounds per year).
• Significant quantities of hazardous, chlorine-derived wastes are generated throughout the life cycle of PVC and released into the environment.
• The by-products associated with the vinyl life cycle are some of the most globally persistent. Pollutants can be found in even the most remote ecosystems on the planet.
• Due to its chlorinated makeup, the entire life cycle of vinyl is responsible for the formation of more dioxin than any other single product.
• Dioxin is a well-known carcinogen and can affect the reproductive, immune, endocrine and neurological systems.
• Chlorine production for PVC results in the release of more than 200,000 pounds of mercury into air, water and land each year.
• To make vinyl products flexible, controversial plasticizers known as phthalates are used, accounting for nearly 90 percent of total phthalate consumption. This translates into more than 5 million tons used for vinyl every year.
• Energy-intensive chlorine production for PVC consumes an estimated 47 billion kilowatt hours per year – almost equal to the annual total output of eight medium-sized nuclear power plants.
• Lead is often added to vinyl construction products as a stabilizer to extend its life. It is estimated that 45,000 tons of lead are released each year into the environment during its disposal by incineration.

Recycling PVC can reduce the amount of virgin PVC manufactured, thereby reducing the toxic footprint it leaves behind.