Why are there different types of plastics pipe and can they be recycled?
The concrete pipe industry nominates the variety of materials and the fact that they can be recycled as negatives for plastics pipes. Quite the contrary is true – this versatility in materials selection and the ability to recycle “cradle to cradle” are enormous positives for plastics pipe. Having only one material option is limiting. The variety of plastic materials coupled with the versatility of different manufacturing options allows plastics pipe systems to be tailored to the needs of the project using material efficient products that are environmentally responsible. Thermoplastic materials (like PVC, polyethylene and polypropylene) are readily recycled and currently PIPA has recycling programs in Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane turning waste plastics pipe back into stormwater, DWV and sewer pipe. These pipes must still meet the performance requirements of the relevant Australian Standards. In these product standards the same performance criteria apply to pipes made from virgin mater
