PVC-U based products, like windows and doors, often end up in landfills when they aren’t recycled, contributing to environmental damage, increasing carbon emissions, and wasting raw materials.
As a leader in PVC-U recycling, Eurocell recognised the need to offer its trade customers a comprehensive recycling solution that would not only reduce waste but also enhance their own sustainability efforts.
With a long-standing commitment to sustainable practices, Eurocell aims to create a closed-loop recycling process that collects used PVC-U directly from customers, recycling it into new products for the construction and fenestration industries.
To achieve this, Eurocell sought a partner with extensive waste management experience and the infrastructure to provide a reliable, scalable solution. There was no better choice than Biffa, which offered the expertise and logistical support to implement a PVC-U collection service tailored for Eurocell’s trade customers, including fabricators and installers.
In February 2023, Eurocell and Biffa launched a trial of a domestic PVC-U collection service within a 30-mile radius of the NE28 postcode – this covers a large part of the North East.
An innovative model was introduced, where Eurocell worked with smaller traders and collections could be booked alongside new product orders. Collected PVC-U was then consolidated at hubs and transferred to Eurocell’s recycling facility, ensuring that materials were repurposed into new products through a closed-loop process.
Samantha Wood, Corporate Account Manager at Biffa said: “We’re proud to deliver comprehensive waste management solutions that support our partners in achieving their sustainability goals. Our collaboration with Eurocell is a prime example of how we can support a closed-loop recycling system that keeps valuable materials out of landfills and contributes to a greener future.”
Since the trial began, the Eurocell and Biffa partnership has achieved significant milestones:
- 195 collections were completed, with zero failed collections—a 100% success rate.
- A total of 2,568 PVC-U frames were collected and recycled, which would have otherwise ended up in landfill. This equates to over 25 tonnes of PVC-U.
- Eurocell has enhanced its feeder stock with recycled PVC-U, reinforcing its position as a market leader in sustainable recycling for the construction and fenestration industries.
- The closed-loop recycling process is actively reducing carbon emissions and supporting a circular economy by reclaiming valuable raw materials that would otherwise end up in landfill.
Sandra Gaspar, Head of Recycling, at Eurocell said: “Our partnership with Biffa has had a tremendous impact on our sustainability efforts, allowing us to recycle over 2,500 PVC-U frames, keeping our precious plastic feedstock out of landfill. This collaboration perfectly aligns with our commitment to a closed-loop recycling process, reducing waste and supporting a more sustainable future for both our customers and the environment.”
The trial has been so successful that Eurocell and Biffa plan to expand the PVC-U collection service further by January 2025, extending the reach to more customers and locations. This expansion will provide even more trade customers with a sustainable, easy-to-use waste management solution.
