Eurocell has announced that it processed the equivalent of 3.2 million PVC-U window frames during 2019 – a year-on-year increase of 8%.
Having invested millions over recent years in developing the capabilities of its recycling facilities, the company claims it was able to stop tens of thousands of tonnes of PVC-U from ending up in landfill – approximately the same weight as 3,700 double-decker buses.
Eurocell says it has continuously upgraded the capabilities of its Ilkeston and Selby-based recycling operations since 2009. Eurocell Recycle, which employs 150 people, is reported to be the largest operation of its kind in the UK.
The facilities allow the entire lifespan of a window profile to become more sustainable. When windows reach the end of their life, they are shredded, granulated and micronised. Using the granulated PVC-U, Eurocell then extrudes new profiles. This process can be repeated up to 10 times using the same material, giving recycled PVC-U windows a lifespan of 350 years or more.
Chris Coxon, group head of marketing at Eurocell, said: “Operating in a sustainable and environmentally-friendly way has never been more important – or topical. It’s something that we’re highly conscious of – and have been acting on –- for more than a decade now. So, it’s fantastic to have once again made significant progress in output.
“We’re working hard to ensure that Eurocell Recycle, our dedicated recycling division, continues to make a real impact. We plan to consistently increase these figures announced today and lead the positive work going on within our industry.”