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Recycling study

Recyclability of Drainage Systems: Fact-Based Decision Support for Material Selection

New EPEA study now available

Sustainability begins with choosing the right materials. A recent study by the environmental research and consultancy institute EPEA GmbH – Part of Drees & Sommer – reveals significant differences in the actual recyclability of various pipe materials.

This evidence-based study analyzes and compares the recyclability of cast iron pipes and multilayer plastic pipes used in building drainage systems, with a particular focus on practical relevance, resource efficiency, and circularity.

Key Findings of the Study

  • Cast iron pipes are fully integrated into established recycling loops, achieving material recovery rates of up to 90%
  • Infinite recyclability without quality loss: Cast iron can be recycled indefinitely without degradation in material quality
  • Refund: Cast iron pipes generate a return at the end of their service life, while multilayer plastic pipes currently incur disposal costs
  • Resource conservation through a closed material loop
  • Cradle-to-Cradle® approach: Buildings as raw material depots

In Comparison:

  • Multilayer plastic pipes are currently regarded non-recyclable in terms of material recovery
  • In practice, they are predominantly subjected to thermal recovery (incinerated)
  • Their complex material composition prevents straightforward recycling

“The recyclability of cast iron pipes can already be regarded proven today – this is not the case for multilayer plastic pipes.”
– EPEA Study, p. 3

Download the full study now (in German language)

Gain valuable insights into the methodology, data, and results – and discover how the practical feasibility of recycling potential can significantly influence your project decisions.

Cast iron pipes