The Vinyl Council recognises that PVC products add significant benefit to society, including environmental benefit, as a function of their excellent performance, durability and affordability.
However, as with any manufactured product, there are impacts which need to be understood, characterised and addressed along the PVC product life cycle. The PVC industry in Australia has demonstrated its commitment to improve and innovate its manufacturing practices and products through this Product Stewardship Program. Below, we provide a summary of the industry's achievements.
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Significant Program Developments in 2008
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- PIPA members phased out use of lead stabilisers in pipes and fittings
- Medical waste recycling trial launched
- VCM emissions from resin manufacturing below the Commitment standard
- Life cycle training undertaken by two Signatories
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Significant Developments in 2007
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- Two Signatories completed the removal of heavy metal stabilisers from products ahead of schedule.
- A new Commitment was agreed on the use and phase out of heavy metal pigments.
- Vinyl Chloride emission standards in manufacturing were met.
- An increased number of Signatories met the Program's Minimum Standard for Environmental Management of their operations.
- Growth of the Pipe Recovery Program continued.
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- Recycling trials for end-of-life and installation flooring waste were initiated.
- The Code of Practice for the Use of Lead and Cadmium - including the commitment to phase out lead and cadmium stabilisers - was updated and revised.
- An evaluation of the implementation and effectiveness of the Program over the past 5 years (2002-2007) was conducted.
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Significant Developments in 2006
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- The Code of Practice for Use of Lead and Cadmium in PVC Products in Australia reviewed and updated
- A reduction in VCM emissions per tonne of PVC produced by resin manufacturer
- Good progress made on implementing substitutes to lead stabilisers by the pipe/fitting and cable sectors
- Expansion of the commitment to remove heavy metals from PVC products
- Initiatives to incorporate life cycle thinking into product strategies
- Geographical extension of pipe/fittings waste recovery and recycling
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Copies of our annual progress reports and a Five Year Evaluation report are available to download on our Publications page.
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