BPF Comments on Lead Restriction in Recycled PVC

The British Plastics Federation (BPF) was disappointed to hear the European Parliament’s decision to reject the proposed derogation for recycled PVC material containing legacy lead. The removal of this derogation effectively prevents this material from being recycled and kept within a circular economy. The end of life route for this material will therefore need to be incineration or landfill. Currently nearly 740,000 tonnes of PVC are recycled each year through VinylPlus, a voluntary initiative of the European PVC industry, with a target of 900,000 tonnes by 2025.

In addition to the environmental consequences, there is also a potential impact on jobs. Vinylplus figures found that 1,500 people are directly employed in PVC recycling plants.  a

This BPF would like to see this decision reconsidered, taking into account the scientific assessment by the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA), which concluded that recycling is the best waste management option for PVC from both an environmental and human health perspective.

[The BPF is a trade association that represents over 500 companies from across the plastics supply chain. This includes the recycling sector, which plays a pivotal role in ensuring plastics are kept within a circular economy wherever possible.]