Latest EU Report on the use of materials for the
manufacture of windows

The debate on the environmental credentials of PVC-U is ongoing and is the subject of many reports and surveys.  Below is a link to one of the latest reports, commissioned by the European Union, and which in its’ executive summary relates directly to the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of competing materials used in the manufacture of windows.

Specifically it states:-

"For windows, one of the most important PVC applications, the available studies conclude that there is no "winner" in terms of a preferable material since most of the studies conclude that none of the materials has an overall advantage for the standard impact categories. The most promising potential for lowering environmental impacts of windows is expected through the optimisation of the design. Therefore the choice of material is of rather minor importance, as long as the material can provide the required system quality of the window."

Full European Report (PDF format: 213k in size)

British Plastics Federation – Latest Report providing answers to environmental concerns on the use of PVC-U

The British Plastics Federation Window Group (BPFWG) has recently published its’ latest report which is designed to dispel many of the myths concerning the environmental credentials of PVCU windows.

‘Windows – A Transparent case for PVC’ is said to cover all aspects of the environmental sustainability of PVCU. From production, through the use phase, to finally the disposal of old windows, be it by recycling, incineration or landfill. Each of the main environmental considerations is covered in detail and accompanied by a bibliography giving reference details, for those who wish to dig deeper.

Windows - A Transparent Case (PDF format: 638k in size)