As South Africa continues to build a circular economy, plastic pipes are proving that sustainability doesn't end when infrastructure reaches the end of its service life. Both PVC and HDPE pipes can be successfully recycled once removed from service. However, ensuring they are recycled responsibly once they have reached their end-of-life is critical to protecting future infrastructure and public safety.

Designed to last and to be recycled

Unlike many short-life or single use plastic products, PVC and HDPE pipes remain in service for more than 100 years. Their exceptional durability reduces replacement frequency and conserves valuable resources. When eventually removed during maintenance or infrastructure upgrades, they become valuable recyclable materials rather than landfill waste.

According to Plastics SA's latest 2025 recycling report[1], South Africa recycled 485 000 tonnes of plastics during the year. PVC accounted for 18 238 tonnes, while HDPE contributed 77 799 tonnes to the country's recycling output. An overall output recycling rate[2] of 30.1 % for all plastics was achieved in 2025, with PVC recording an 11% recycling rate and HDPE a 34% recycling rate.

“Both PVC and HDPE pipes are recyclable. The challenge is ensuring that they are recycled and reused responsibly, without compromising the safety and performance of future infrastructure,” says Jan Venter, CEO of the Southern African Plastic Pipe Manufacturers Association (SAPPMA).

Why recycled material cannot be used in new pressure pipes

The ability to recycle plastic pipes does not mean recycled material can simply be incorporated into new pressure pipes. As this distinction is often misunderstood, Venter explains why SAPPMA strictly prohibits the use of recycled material from external sources in the manufacture of certified pressure pipes:

“Pressure pipes operate under continuous internal pressure for decades while transporting drinking water, wastewater, gas and industrial fluids. Because they form part of critical infrastructure, manufacturers must guarantee consistent mechanical strength, long-term creep resistance and predictable performance throughout their design life. Unknown recycled material from external sources introduces variables that cannot always be verified, making it unsuitable for these safety-critical applications”.

He adds that international and South African standards (ISO/SANS 4427 for HDPE and equivalent standards for PVC pressure pipes) only permit manufacturers to reprocess their own clean, in-house production scrap under tightly controlled conditions. External recycled material is not permitted because its composition, contamination history and long-term performance cannot be guaranteed.

“Short-term cost savings should never come at the expense of safety, quality or infrastructure reliability. SAPPMA’s strict position should not be interpreted as opposition to recycling, but should be seen as a reflection of responsible engineering and our unwavering commitment to protecting critical infrastructure,” Venter says.