Sustainable solutions: Setting standards for safer PVC pipes and fittings

Standards Australia has announced a significant milestone in the PVC industry with the publication of the new standard AS/NZS 5395, Best Environmental Practice PVC Pipes and Fittings. This standard, the first of its kind worldwide, is specifically developed for PVC pipes and fittings.

A comprehensive approach to PVC production and its benefits

The new standard accounts for the entire supply chain, from the production of PVC resin and use of additives to the manufacture of finished goods and end-of-life considerations. Recognised by the Green Building Council of Australia, this standard aligns with a vision for a healthier, resilient, and circular built environment. It guarantees that Australian PVC pipes and fittings are free from harmful substances like phthalates, dioxins, or heavy metal additives. These pipes provide the highest level of safety for carrying drinking water, protecting it from contaminants. Above all, this standard offers consumers peace of mind, knowing they’re choosing safe, environmentally friendly, and high-quality PVC products.

Kareen Riley-Takos, Chief Operating Officer from Standards Australia, adds, “The launch of this standard represents a significant step towards sustainable development and environmental stewardship.  In addition to ensuring the safety and quality of PVC pipes and fittings, it contributes significantly to our vision of a circular economy. Standards Australia is proud to lead the way in establishing best environmental practices in the PVC industry, setting a global benchmark for others to follow.”

Best Environmental Practice (BEP) PVC and its role in the Circular Economy

BEP PVC is a reliable, safer, and more environmentally friendly way to produce PVC. This standard coincides with the updated companion Industry Guideline POP106 Verification Guidance for Best Environmental Practice PVC Pipe and Fittings, published by the Plastics Industry Pipe Association of Australia Limited (PIPA). PVC pipes and fittings play a vital role in the circular economy, making better use of resources, having closed-loop resource flows, and preventing waste and pollution through their design. They are safe for people and the planet, supporting everything from delivering drinking water, gas and electricity to communities nationwide. They safely carry away sewerage, rainwater and stormwater, protecting our environment and protect our large network of internet cables. PVC pipes are used in irrigation systems that grow vital food for us and the rest of the world.  

Overcoming perceptions and the evolution of PVC standards

Despite the perception of plastic pipes as negative, these pipes have significant sustainability benefits. PVC is 100% recyclable, has a life expectancy of 100 years, and can be mechanically recycled 8 to 10 times without losing its technical properties. Previously, BEP PVC was an appendix to the five different PVC pipe product standards. Recognising its importance, PIPA worked with Standards Australia to develop AS/NZS 5395 as a standalone standard. This recently published standard, marks Australia’s leadership in the field of BEP PVC.

As Cindy Bray, Executive General Manager, PIPA, reiterates, “The development of the new standard shows the plastic pipes and fittings industry’s commitment to ensure the highest level of safety and environmental considerations. These best practices account for the entire supply chain from production, manufacturer, and end of life considerations.  We’re proud to be part of this significant milestone in the PVC pipe and fittings industry, contributing to a healthier, resilient, and circular built environment.”  

For more information, please visit www.pipa.com.au