Polyflor News | Specialists in vinyl flooring & protection

VINYL: a sustainable choice?

Written by Nelia Garcia | 2023/10/10 12:55 PM

Polyflor is committed to reducing carbon emissions while also promoting social and economic responsibility. Our business model globally is guided by the Three Pillars of Sustainability, which emphasise the interconnectedness of the environment, society, and economics.

THE 7-STEP SUSTAINABILITY PROCESS

Step 1:  Sustainable Design

 

Future Proofing

Polyflor embraces technological enhancements whilst producing functional and aesthetic products which will perform for years to come. Embracing the circular economy from the outset, to minimise waste, is also crucial.

Step 2: Materials

Responsible Sourcing

Polyflor floor coverings contain a combination of ingredients which are clean, compliant, sustainable, and recycled. The materials we use in our flooring are responsibly sourced and audited by the most stringent of global authorities.

Step 3:  Production

 

Protecting Resources

Our flooring is energy efficient to manufacture and minimise environmental impact and carbon emissions. We apply ‘The 3 Rs’ as we look to continuously reduce, recycle and reuse resources. Our use of renewable energy has also increased dramatically.

Step 4: Logistics

Reducing Footprints

We are responsible within the supply chain, and our floor coverings are distributed efficiently through a well managed fleet and distribution network. We recognise social and environmental impacts of all transportation, therefore adopting appropriate strategies to minimise our carbon footprint.

 

Step 5: Installation

Sustainable Fit

Polyflor is reducing environmental impacts associated with installation through healthier adhesives, adhesive-free installation and promoting correct installation for a long-lasting, well performing vinyl floor covering.

 

Step 6: In Use

Zero Compromise

Accounting for a significant part of our flooring’s environmental impact, the "in use" phase is an important element of the life cycle, given the typical 20-25 year lifespan of most of our products. Low maintenance and low VOC, our floor coverings are fit for purpose without compromising on the environment.

 

Step 7: Closing The Loop

Recycling

Polyflor UK has been recycling their post-production waste vinyl since the 1950s and now collect and recycle post-consumer waste vinyl too. Many of our floor coverings can be reused, but if not, they are all 100% recyclable through the global, Recofloor take back scheme or other initiatives and outlets.

Locally, Polyflor SA is committed to maximising recycling efforts and creating a culture of sustainability throughout the entire value chain.

According to Nelia Garcia, Polyflor Commercial Sector Sales Manager and Green Building Council South Africa's Green Star Accredited Professional, "We have been actively collecting and recycling installation offcuts for several years, successfully diverting over 20,156.90kg from ending up in landfills."

Garcia further explains, "We are currently piloting an innovative and groundbreaking process that will revolutionise the construction industry."

 

 

To access detailed information, click to download the latest Sustainability Brochure.