Closing the circular economy loop with Pipeback and Iplex

With sustainability and the circular economy becoming increasingly prominent, companies around the industry are looking to improve their environmental credentials. Iplex has a program that can support those who want to be better.

Pipeback has now been running for about two years. It is Iplex’s stewardship program that forms a fundamental part of its sustainability commitment. Up and down the east coast of Australia, Pipeback centres can accept compliant PVC and Iplex PE pipes, offcuts and fittings and other PE pipes, offcuts and fittings made to AS4130 standards. This includes used pipes and fittings that are PVC and PE-compliant and aren’t heavily contaminated. Other recyclable products include timber that is used in pipe packaging.

Elaina Lobendahn is the National Sustainability Manager at Iplex. She has been leading the sustainability strategy at Iplex and executing plans to meet global and industry aspirations for the business in Australia. Lobendahn has worked tirelessly with stakeholders to deliver long-term strategic goals.

Success from the start

The Pipeback Program supports Australia’s efforts to reduce plastic waste and contribute to a more circular economy. To date, Pipeback has taken in more than 50 tonnes of pipes, offcuts, fittings, and timber.

“Since Pipeback was launched in 2022, the program has experienced remarkable growth with over a 300 per cent increase in its impact,” Lobendahn said. “This is an outstanding achievement over the years.”

The program’s ongoing success is a testament to its effectiveness and the dedication of the Iplex team’s involvement.

“The program has been adapting and evolving to meet the needs of our stakeholders with its impressive trajectory,” she said. “Pipeback is set up to continue making a meaningful difference and achieving even greater success in the years to come.”

Sustainability and the circular economy

Iplex recognises the importance of the environment and sustainability for the future. It is committed to minimising the impact on the environment and proactively managing any potential risks.

“Pipeback plays a crucial role in advancing our broader and circular economy goals,” Lobendahn said. “It promotes the efficient use of materials and waste minimisation while diverting highly recyclable materials from going into landfills. Iplex reprocesses these pieces into new products, keeping valuable resources in circulation.”

Sustainable practices are embedded in Iplex’s culture. It continues researching, developing, and testing its products to manage waste and conserve precious resources.

“The Pipeback program fosters the circular economy by closing the loop on the product lifecycle, minimising the need for raw material extraction and promoting a more sustainable approach to production and consumption,” said Lobendahn. “It’s through these efforts that the Pipeback program aligns with the overarching objective of creating a more sustainable, regenerative, and resource-efficient economy.”

By working with the general public, industry, and regulatory bodies to protect the environment, Iplex continues to reduce the impacts associated with its manufacturing and operations, as well as the distribution and use of its products.

One new and growing development for the Pipeback program is taking back timber packaging used to transport its pipes. Lobendahn pointed out that this is an essential resource for society.

“Timber is a precious resource and material in general,” she said. “We use it as part of our packaging, and it is a prized commodity. It’s also one of those highly recyclable materials, so it makes sense as we aim to improve our recovery opportunities through the Pipeback program.”

Working with industry

Part of the growth of the Pipeback program has seen the industry collaborate with Iplex to see what can be done to improve waste management practices. It has worked with a range of commercial operators.

“We are being reached out to for engagement with Pipeback by commercial operators to reduce waste pipe, offcuts, and fittings,” Lobendahn said. “That includes Tier 1 companies, utility providers and large refineries. These companies are trialling Pipeback with us, reflecting the positive direction the industry has taken as they integrate recycling practices into their waste management programs.”

Many of these companies are not only mitigating the environmental impact of construction and commercial waste, they also contribute to the circular economy and resource sustainability by segregating their waste and educating their staff.

“The adoption of Pipeback aligns with Australia’s broader waste reduction and resource recovery targets,” said Lobendahn. “It reflects the collective commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable development within the water industry.”

The Plastics Industry Pipe Association of Australia (PIPA) has long advocated for the better use of plastic pipes and piping materials. This work has been important in educating the industry on the sustainable benefits of plastic pipes.

The future of the program

When it comes to the future, Iplex remains focused on the three key products it is currently taking in at the Pipeback centres across the East Coast. There is always the potential to expand into other material recovery opportunities.

“At the moment, our focus is to educate and grow successfully for the few material types that can be recycled through the program,” Lobendahn said. “It’s still an evolving process and has come a long way.”

Pipeback remains an integral part of Iplex’s services. It aims to grow strategic partnerships and embrace innovative technologies for material recovery.

“Pipeback has been increasing in momentum,” Lobendahn said. “As the program builds and Iplex secures more support, it will evolve into a multi-faceted initiative with increased outreach. I believe that it is providing a positive impact on sustainability. It’s why we are positioning Pipeback as a cornerstone of environmental stewardship within the industry.”

For more information, visit https://www.iplex.com.au/pipeback/