As the busy season tapers off in October, it’s a good time to reflect on the materials we rely on in our industry. PVC, long valued for its durability and ease of installation, is also proving to be a strong player in the conversation around sustainability. While it might not be the flashiest material on the jobsite, it’s one that deserves renewed attention.
A Smaller Footprint from the Start
PVC pipes are manufactured using fewer raw materials than many traditional piping options, including metal and some other plastics. This means less energy consumption during production, which translates into a smaller environmental footprint from the start. But the sustainability story doesn’t end at the factory.
Longevity is one of PVC’s strongest assets. With proper design and installation, PVC piping systems can function effectively for over 70 years. Fewer replacements over time mean less waste, reduced labor, and lower demand for new resources. This long service life aligns closely with modern goals for building greener, more efficient infrastructure.
Supporting a Circular Economy
PVC also stands out for its recyclability. Unlike some thermoset plastics that degrade after use, PVC can be reclaimed and mechanically recycled into new piping and other products. This makes it one of the few piping materials with an established end-of-life pathway that supports a circular economy.
In everyday use, PVC’s smooth interior walls reduce friction loss, helping pumps run more efficiently and lowering energy demand across the system. Because it’s resistant to corrosion and mineral buildup, it also helps reduce the frequency of leaks and water loss, which supports water conservation efforts and extends the life of surrounding infrastructure.
Meeting Today’s Sustainability Expectations
These performance advantages may already be familiar to installers and contractors, but they are increasingly important to engineers, municipal planners, and environmentally conscious customers. As sustainability becomes a more prominent decision factor in construction and maintenance planning, PVC continues to prove itself as a reliable, forward-looking choice.
Bringing the Message Forward
This October, we’ll be spotlighting PVC as part of a focused campaign on sustainable solutions. We’ll also take this opportunity to highlight our ECO product line. These solutions are designed to meet today’s performance standards while supporting greener building practices. As interest in sustainable infrastructure continues to grow, we are proud to offer options that align with both contractor needs and environmental goals.
About Weld-On
Weld-On Adhesives, Inc., a subsidiary of IPS Corporation, is the pioneer and leading manufacturer of Weld-On® solvent cements, primers and cleaners for PVC, CPVC, ABS and other plastic piping systems. Weld-On products are globally recognized as the premium products for joining plastic pipes and fittings. Headquartered in California, Weld-On has state-of-the-art operations throughout the United States, as well as China, and a worldwide network of sales representatives and distributors.