BPF looks back at Recovinyl’s Success
Monday, 13 June 2011
The Recovinyl project, part of the Vinyl 2010 programme, has ridden an interesting rollercoaster since its conception gaining increasing momentum and success through the contributions made by the PVC industry. The British Plastics Federation (BPF) looks back at some of the highlights.
In April 2005, Recovinyl was launched with the BPF receiving supervisory appointment for the implementation of the project within the UK. Responsibility for implementation was given to Axion Recycling.
In 2006, Recovinyl introduced the collection of flexible PVC which increased the total volume of post-consumer PVC material collected.
In 2007, developments in compliance and Recovinyl’s Support Guide became oil in the axle for recyclers.
By the end of 2008 191,000 ktonnes of recycled post-consumer PVC waste had been registered, exceeding the primary goal by 11,000tonnes.
In March 2009, due to the slump in the construction industry effected by the economic downturn the volume of registered PVC waste was on the decrease despite the introduction of new recyclers to the programme during 2008. Bolstered by Recovinyl’s call to action and the commitment of the PVC industry, PVC registration renewed its sweep upwards from October 2009.
Before the final loop of a rollercoaster and final celebration there is usually a very steep and long incline. This was certainly the case for the Recovinyl project. On 2010’s closure the UK alone had collected 49,343 tonnes of recycled waste – almost 20% of the total European figure of 254,814 – exceeding all Vinyl 2010 expectations.
The BPF considers the impact of the Recovinyl project and the efforts of the PVC industry as substantial, reinforcing the marketability of PVC products. With 27 UK recyclers in place as a result of the project and the developments of vinyl flooring take-back award scheme Recofloor, things are looking up for the Vinyl Industry. Recovinyl will issue an update on the project status following the launch of Vinyl Plus, the new 10 year voluntary program, on June 22nd 2011.
