Get rid of PVC? PVC restricted and banned!

PVC now really needs to be curbed and banned!

In the world of labels, packaging and technical applications, plastic has been an essential material for decades. VanDerEng should know, we have been producing labels for 131 years and from plastic for years. However, one type of plastic is increasingly being discussed: polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Due to the increasing attention for environmental effects and changing laws and regulations, the pressure to make more sustainable choices is growing. One of the most obvious alternatives is HDPE (high-density polyethylene).

Changing regulations and societal pressure.

PVC often contains harmful additives, including plasticizers and chlorine compounds. PVC also literally breaks down quickly, causing the residues to end up in nature. During production and processing, these substances can therefore cause damage to people and the environment. In addition, PVC is almost impossible to recycle. The Dutch government and the EU have taken steps to limit the use of environmentally harmful materials.

For example, the European Single Use Plastics (SUP) directive has been in force since 2021, which bans various plastic products or subjects them to stricter requirements. The Netherlands is also working on the introduction of the National Circular Plastics Standard (NCPN), which will oblige manufacturers to use at least 15% recycled or biobased plastic from 2027 - a percentage that will increase further towards 2030.

Although PVC is not currently prohibited by law in the Netherlands, in practice it often proves difficult to meet the new standards due to its composition and limited recyclability. Entrepreneurs who anticipate these developments now, position themselves better for the future. In certain countries, the use of PVC has already been contained. (France)

HDPE as a logical alternative

HDPE is a versatile plastic that can be used for many of the same applications as PVC, but with a significantly lower environmental impact. It is easier to recycle, does not contain harmful plasticizers and has a lower CO2 footprint during production. For companies that are working on making their chain more sustainable or that want to gain insight into their environmental performance, HDPE is a valuable step forward.

VanDerEng applies the zero waste principle in any case, which means that all our residual materials are reused to produce new products.

Support for sustainable choices

VanDerEng works daily with various materials for labels and tags and closely follows the developments in regulations. With this expertise we help customers to think about material use and future requirements.

VanDerEng's customers are 'future-proof'.

Entrepreneurs are increasingly confronted with sustainability goals, CSRD, customer expectations and standards from legislation. By considering the role of materials such as PVC and the alternatives that are available now, they can continue to operate in a future-oriented manner.

Thinking ahead is moving forward.