Madhumitha Jaganmohan
Research expert covering climate and environmental sustainability
Get in touch with us nowHow is PVC used?
PVC can be categorized into two distinct types: rigid PVC and flexible PVC. Rigid PVC finds application in the manufacturing of pipes, fittings, and roofing membranes, whereas flexible PVC, which contains plasticizers which make the PVC softer and more flexible, can be used in the production of trim components, floor mats, and shrink wrap. In 2021, the end use sector that was responsible for the greatest share of global PVC consumption was the construction sector. In the construction industry, PVC's durability and resistance to corrosion and weathering make it suitable for cladding, windows, roofing, fencing, decking, flooring, and many other building materials. Other significant end-use sectors include the transportation and automotive industry which employ PVC for both interior and exterior trim components due to its flexibility and ability to be molded into diverse shapes.What are the challenges and opportunities for PVC?
Despite its versatility, PVC has faced criticism for its environmental impact. The production process of PVC involves the use of toxic chemicals, potentially leading to the emission of harmful pollutants into the environment. Another environmental concern of PVC is that it is difficult to degrade, and as such PVC waste can persist in landfills for many hundreds of years, contributing to the global plastic pollution problem.However, efforts are being made to improve the sustainability of PVC production and consumption. These include the implementation of recycling practices, adoption of renewable energy sources, and the development of bioplastics and biodegradable alternatives. Despite these concerns, the PVC industry is expected to continue to grow. In 2021, the global market for PVC was valued at 68.3 billion U.S. dollars and is expected to grow to a value of 100.9 billion U.S. dollars in 2031.
