Environmentally friendly and resource-saving: How much sustainability is there in plastic pipes?
In a world that is increasingly threatened by environmental problems such as climate change and resource scarcity, sustainability has become a central concern in all areas of daily life. The search for environmentally friendly and resource-saving solutions is also at the top of the agenda in industry. One area that is often underestimated is the processing and correct handling of plastics.
But how much sustainability is actually in our plastic pipes?
We at Westfälische Kunststofftechnik have taken up the challenge and set ourselves the goal of producing plastic pipes that are not only of high quality and durable, but also environmentally friendly and resource-saving. But how do we succeed in making plastic products sustainable?
A decisive step in this direction is the right manufacturing process. WKT uses innovative processes to keep reject rates low in pipe production. Unused plastic parts are 100% recycled and can be reused directly for pipe production. This recycling process can be repeated several times, which greatly increases resource efficiency and ecological sustainability. The pipe materials are also fully recyclable after use. This is where we tie in with the plastic pipe industry's so-called closed-loop system.
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It's all about the right cycle
In addition to the resource-efficient production of plastic pipes, the closed-loop system includes the use of recyclable packaging materials, a sustainable service life of up to 100 years and the subsequent processing and regranulation of the material used. This means that our plastic pipes are designed in such a way that they not only have a long service life, but are also easy to recycle. In order to stay one step ahead in this process, we are constantly working on the development of new recycling and reuse technologies to further strengthen the closed loop of plastics. - Our key to ecological sustainability.
Sustainability: A constant companion
Another important aspect is the proper collection and sorting of our waste. In 2023, we achieved a certified separate collection rate of over 94%. We rely on an effective waste sorting concept in accordance with the guidelines of the Commercial Waste Ordinance. This makes operational waste avoidance a top priority, and WKT strives for continuous improvements in waste separation and recycling.
Modern production facilities and optimized manufacturing processes are used to guarantee energy efficiency within our production. This enables us to keep energy consumption low, maximize the use of renewable energy and further reduce our environmental impact. WKT has been operating a certified energy management system in accordance with DIN EN ISO 50001 since 2014 and has since increased its overall energy efficiency by over 15% through various measures.
Our long-term goal is to promote the development of sustainable raw materials and areas of application for our plastic pipes. To this end, we want to further expand our sustainable areas of application and develop future-oriented product solutions that continuously support the use of renewable energies and incorporate the use of renewable resources into the entire manufacturing process of our plastic pipes. For example, we supply products for the transportation of hydrogen, transmission protection for renewable energy lines and the construction of cold local heating networks.
A look at the overall balance sheet shows:
Plastic pipes from WKT are not only technically sophisticated and of high quality, but also environmentally friendly and resource-saving. Through the consistent use of sustainable plastics, the continuous optimization of our production processes and the efficient promotion of recycling, we not only want to make a contribution to environmental protection, but also to sustainable and green overall development.
If you are also looking for an environmentally friendly and sustainable solution for plastic pipe applications, you should take a look at our sustainable product solutions. This is where innovative technology meets responsible action - for a better future.