Oldham-based Recycling PVC is celebrating after winning the Sustainable Innovation Award at this year’s Oldham Business Awards, recognising its pioneering work in transforming old window frames into high-grade recycled material that can be used again to make new windows and doors.
At the heart of the company’s award-winning approach is a closed-loop recycling process that recovers PVCu from old windows and doors, helping to reduce waste going to landfill and support more sustainable manufacturing. For every tonne of recycled material produced, around 140 new window frames can be manufactured, saving approximately two tonnes of CO₂ emissions compared with using virgin PVCu.
Part of the global profine Group, Recycling PVC is planning to further expand its recycling operations over the next 12 months, with the potential to create further jobs for local people.
PVCu windows have traditionally been difficult to recycle because they contain a combination of materials, including glass, steel reinforcement and other components. Recycling PVC has invested in specialist dismantling, shredding and separation technology to overcome these challenges. The process results in high-grade recycled polymer that can be returned directly into the manufacturing process and used to manufacture profine’s Greenline window and door systems, ensuring valuable materials can be reused rather than sent to landfill.
Ian Murray, Managing Director of Recycling PVC, said: “We’re absolutely delighted to have won the Sustainable Innovation Award, particularly as it’s recognition from our local business community here in Oldham.
“We’ve invested heavily in developing the technology and processes needed to turn old windows into high-quality recycled material that can be used to manufacture new products. It’s a great example of how innovation can make a real difference to the environment while also creating opportunities for British manufacturing.
“Oldham has a proud industrial heritage, and we’re pleased to be playing our part in its future. This award is a fantastic achievement for everyone involved in the business and recognition of the hard work and commitment of our team.”
More than 450 people attended the Great Gatsby-themed Oldham Business Awards evening, held at The Loom in Oldham, for the first time after 17 years at the town’s Queen Elizabeth Hall.
