| Recycling vs. Incineration |
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The objective of this study, conducted by PE International, is to compare mechanical recycling of PVC waste with incineration of the same amount, focusing on emissions of CO2 and other greenhouse gases that contribute to global warming. The study shows that conventional, mechanical recycling of one kg of PVC waste avoids the emission of three to four kg CO2 when compared to incineration, even after taking into account the CO2 emitted by the alternative processes needed to produce the energy not generated by PVC incineration. It has to be noted than more than half of the CO2 ascribed to PVC incineration is due to “system expansion”, i.e. represents the emission related to the production of PVC and additives needed to compensate for the PVC which is not recycled. The actual contribution from only incineration is less than three kg CO2/kg. Please click here to download the full report. |
