The Vinyl Council of Australia (VCA) has published its 2024 PVC Stewardship Program (PSP) Annual Progress Report, showcasing remarkable advancements in sustainability and stewardship across the PVC industry. The report offers a comprehensive overview of the industry’s achievements over the 2024 calendar year, and insight into the year ahead, emphasising its commitment to ethical supply chains, responsible manufacturing, and whole-of-life product stewardship.

The PVC Stewardship Program, established in 2002, is a voluntary initiative developed by the Vinyl Council of Australia aiming to address environmental and health considerations throughout the life cycle of PVC products. It provides a framework for Signatories - companies involved in the PVC value chain, including manufacturers, suppliers, and recyclers - to address specific commitments related to the material’s lifecycle. These commitments cover a broad spectrum, including responsible sourcing of raw materials, the elimination of hazardous additives, minimisation of manufacturing emissions, and the promotion of recycling and waste reduction.

Over the years, the program has set benchmarks and introduced measurable goals to help participants transition to more sustainable practices while ensuring transparency and accountability. By fostering collaboration among stakeholders, the PSP aims to create a circular and resilient PVC industry that aligns with global sustainability expectations.

Key Program milestones in 2024

 The 2024 report highlights significant outcomes, including:

• 89% of Signatories achieving at least 80% compliance with program commitments.
• 100% of Signatories reporting compliance at or above 50%.
• A 47% increase in Signatories achieving Gold Excellence outcomes compared to 2023 – 19 (+9 from 2023).
• Notable improvements in areas such as modern slavery, waste reduction, and greenhouse gas reporting.
• 2024 Medical PVC waste collection – 133.3 tonnes (+10%).
• 2024 PVC recyclate consumption – local signatory consumption was down by 6.98% at 2,091 tonnes, but still higher than 2022. It was down due to issues with high quality recyclate streams. On-going programs, such as Pharmacycle and Resiloop will hopefully improve recycling rates in future years.

The report also welcomes the addition of two new Signatories, FireSense and Normet, whose participation strengthens the collaborative framework that underpins the PSP and reinforces the industry’s dedication to building a sustainable, transparent, and circular PVC industry in Australia.

A collaborative approach to sustainability

VCA CEO Jim Coulston expressed his enthusiasm for the continued progress, stating: “The 2024 PVC Stewardship Program results demonstrate the power of collaboration and shared commitment. It’s truly inspiring to see Signatories embrace continuous improvement across the PVC value chain, not only meeting but exceeding evolving sustainability expectations. Their efforts showcase the Australian PVC industry’s capacity to lead in ethical supply chains and responsible manufacturing practices.

“The Vinyl Council of Australia and PSP Signatories recognise the essential role that vinyl products play in advancing a more sustainable future. With their durability, versatility, and resource efficiency, PVC materials support vital sectors including healthcare, construction, and infrastructure. As Australia accelerates its shift toward a circular economy, the PSP positions its Signatories within the Australian PVC industry, to lead – championing material efficiency, sustainable product design, and durability in applications that deliver high societal value.”

Christopher Tate, VCA Sustainability Officer, echoed Jim Coulston’s sentiments, adding: “The PSP is fundamentally about fostering a culture of accountability and progress. The achievements outlined in this report, particularly the rise in excellence outcomes and improved benchmark statuses, illustrate how industry stakeholders are stepping up to meet the challenges of sustainability head-on. We are thrilled to welcome FireSense and Normet into the program, further galvanising our collective mission.”

2024 Report Overview

With 45 Signatories reporting this year, including 19 achieving Excellence and 17 improving their benchmark status, the PSP reflects an industry-wide commitment to continuous improvement. The report underscores the importance of addressing measurable commitments throughout the PVC lifecycle, from raw materials and additives to recycling and waste reduction.

Building a sustainable future

The Vinyl Council of Australia applauds the efforts of all PSP participants whose dedication to sustainability and stewardship continues to pave the way for a greener future. The 2024 PVC Stewardship Program Annual Progress Report stands as a testament to industry innovation, collaboration, and responsibility.

For more information on the PVC Stewardship Program and to view the 2024 Annual Progress Report, please visit https://www.vinyl.org.au/our-progress.