The VinylPlus programme to 2020 was developed through open dialogue with stakeholders, identifying key challenges for PVC on the basis of The Natural Step System Conditions for a Sustainable Society.
For its next sustainability programme to 2030, in order to contribute proactively to addressing the global challenges and priorities, VinylPlus adopted an outside-in approach to goal setting. The next VinylPlus Commitment aims to contribute to the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, with a particular focus on sustainable consumption and production, climate change and partnerships. It also seeks to align with the most relevant EU policies, such as the Circular Economy Action Plan and the EU Chemicals Strategy for Sustainability under the European Green Deal. In line with VinylPlus’ active participation in the European Commission’s Circular Plastics Alliance (CPA), the new commitment also embraces the CPA’s targets on the use of recycled plastics in new products.
The VinylPlus 2030 Commitmentis built around three Pathways:
Pathway 1: Scaling up PVC Value Chain Circularity
“The PVC industry embraces the circular economy. We commit to building upon the achievements made over the last 20 years to accelerate towards circularity. We aim to ensure controlled-loop management of PVC, from circular product design, the development of additional collection schemes and advanced recycling technologies, to ensuring the safe use of recyclate in new high-performance, durable products.”
Pathway 2: Advancing towards Carbon Neutrality and Minimising our Environmental Footprint
“Sustainable chemistry and carbon neutrality are at the heart of a sustainable economy. By applying a science-based approach, we commit to ensuring that all PVC products, including their supply chains and manufacturing processes, continue to reduce their impact on human health and the environment.”
Pathway 3: Building Global Coalitions and Partnering for the SDGs
“Representing the united European PVC value chain as VinylPlus, we commit to ensuring transparency and accountability in its relationships with all stakeholders. Engaging with key stakeholders, including brand owners and specifiers, we will contribute to sustainable development through certified and traceable products. We will continue partnering with civil society, European and global organisations, as well as with the global PVC communities, to share our best sustainability practices and contribute to the UN SDGs.”
To learn about targets for each pathway, read a full press release.