One of the main contributors to landfills in the plumbing industry is PVC pipe offcuts. In 2021, The Master Plumbers Association and the Plastics Industry Pipe Association of Australia collaborated to make a change, starting with South East Queensland. In collaboration with Recce, Tradelink, Iplex and Vinidex, with financial backing from the Queensland Government, the Constructions Plastics Recycling Scheme began modestly. Seven bins were placed in Queensland to receive PVC offcuts.

Construction and demolition waste significantly contributed to landfills between 2018 and 2019." 2.21 million tonnes of non-rotting waste was sent to landfills, with 90.7% originating from South East Queensland. While some of this is concrete, bricks, timber and steel, PVC pipe offcuts also contribute to this environmental challenge. If you're interested in knowing more about plumbers in Mackay make sure you visit Tropical Coast Plumbing.

PVC pipes have a potential lifespan of up to 100 years, which is highly desirable for householders. However, as landfill, the offcuts are devastating. However, PVC offcuts can be manufactured, recycled, and repurposed six to seven times with minimal environmental impact. This means PVC offcuts now have a potential lifespan of 600 years as PVC pipes, which significantly reduces their contribution to landfill.

The Constructions Plastic Recycling Scheme has continued to expand in size and success. In 2022, it was further boosted by its expansion to 16 bins throughout South East Queensland. Now, the scheme can meet large construction sites' special requests with specific recycling bins or large storage bags available on merit and availability. The enthusiasm of involved plumbers and industry leaders has resulted in 2.1 tonnes of PVC offcuts being pivoted from landfills, with 93% recycled into new PVC pipes.

"Landfill is choc-a-block with trade waste, and PVC Pipes have an especially long life. This project has been a mammoth task to get underway but we're so proud of the industry for jumping on board. The uptake has been phenomenal, and we're excited to see it rolled out across Queensland," said John Salmon, MPAQ Councilor and North Brisbane Plumber.

In March 2024, the Queensland Government announced $150,000 in additional funding to boost the locations with 22 new recycling deposit bin locations, increasing the total to 40. With society's conscious push towards an eco-driven society, a circular economy regarding durable, sustainable and environmentally supportive practices continue to gather momentum.

By recycling and reusing products that can last seven generations, Queensland plumbers are making a positive impact on reducing the volume of waste reaching landfills.