PVC4Pipes, the ECVM platform for PVC pipes, welcomes the publication of peer-reviewed Life Cycle Inventory (LCI) datasets for recycled PVC (r-PVC) materials used in pipe production. Developed by Ecoinnovazione for the European Plastic Pipes and Fittings Association (TEPPFA), and co-financed by VinylPlus®, the datasets respond directly to the needs of LCA practitioners and pipe manufacturers for reliable, European-average data on recycled PVC.
PVC pipes are a key outlet for PVC recycled in Europe, accounting for around 11% of the total 2024 uptake according to Recovinyl® recycling data. The new datasets cover the two main forms of r-PVC used in rigid pipes — micronised powder and flakes — and are based on information supplied by four dedicated recyclers across Europe.
By providing comprehensive indicators such as climate change impact, energy and water use, the datasets make it possible to clearly quantify the environmental benefits of using r-PVC in new pipe systems. Importantly, they confirm that r-PVC delivers 85–90% lower CO₂ emissions per kilogramme compared to virgin PVC.
Vincent Stone, Project Leader, said: "I am pleased to see the development of these peer-reviewed datasets, which will provide the pipe value chain with robust and transparent data on recycled PVC. They will enable the industry to demonstrate the clear CO₂ savings realised by using r-PVC and to further strengthen the role of PVC pipes as a safe, durable and eco-efficient solution for sustainable infrastructure."
The datasets are available for free download upon request on the TEPPFA website in both Excel and ILCD formats, allowing seamless use in Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) and LCA software tools.
Request download.
