Quite simply No. PVC raw material is produced in a sealed environment using relatively low energy consumption rates when compared to other materials for similar uses.

Finished products used in construction have more than 40 years useful life, reducing the frequency of replacement compared to other materials and during these 40 years remain virtually maintenance free. At the end of life PVC can be recycled and schemes are now in place to make this happen as PVC products installed in the 1960s are becoming available.

CSR is based on a responsibility to the world in which we operate, and PVC contributes to the wellbeing of all.

For further information take a look at our sustainability of PVC page, which includes a video from Greenpeace.

Since its introduction PVC has been manufactured using a number of additives to create the properties required by the construction industry. These have changed as there have been technological advances.

Addressing each of those questioned:-

Lead

Lead was identified world-wide during the 1990s as a potential hazard to health through over exposure or consumption.

Lead was used in small quantities as a stabilising agent in PVC compounds in the UK up until 2007 when the plastics industry across Europe moved, ahead of its voluntary commitment for 2010, to remove lead from production. Hunter do not use lead in production.

Post-use PVC when recycled will contain lead but not in a form which will be hazardous to health.

Dioxins

There are instances where PVC has been claimed to increase the level of dioxin in the atmosphere. This is not proven to be the case. Dioxins can be produced by many natural and artificial process (domestic heating, car exhausts, smoking).

All research since 1970 shows that dioxin levels have been decreased by 50%, but in the same period PVC production and use has doubled.

Phthalates

Are a plasticiser, which means they are part of a group of chemicals which make products softer, such as flexible bottles.

They are not used in the production of PVC building products.

Sustainability is 2008's big issue but as far back as 1987 The World Commission on Environment and Development defined sustainable development as:-

'Meeting the needs of the present without comprising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs'

There are three accepted pillars of sustainability; Economic, Social, Ecological.

So how does PVC contribute:-

Economic

The UK PVC industry is worth around £5bn, employing 100,000 people, producing goods in the UK.

Social

Our industry provides a safe working environment, sophisticated R and D capabilities to meet new challenges, commitment to investment in technology and recycling.

Ecological

PVC has a long service life reducing the requirement to replace. The raw material is 57% salt, an abundant natural resource, and is eminently recyclable.

PVC is favourable when compared to other manufactured materials used for construction.  This is not just based on the creation of the product but also on the environmental benefits during and after use:-

• Lightweight and energy efficient to transport
• Fast to install, reducing site occupation times
• Long life cycle
• No painting or subsequent repainting needed, reducing the use of chemicals and energy (transport and application)
• 100% recyclable
• Remains inert in landfill, no environmental dangers
• Excellent fire retardant performance

Quite simply PVC is the most versatile material in our sector:-

• Does not rot or warp and is resistant to external application conditions
• Little or no maintenance is needed
• Strong and durable yet lightweight and generally simple to install
• Excellent flow properties due to smooth bore created in production
• Impervious to damp conditions
• Long installed life

We have a company wide commitment to actually responding to the misleading arguments out in the marketplace - if you have any further concerns about the environmental impact of our products, please email Steve Dunkley.