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European experiences on the end-of-life management of polyurethane and other foams
von Paul Ashford, Hookyung Kim, Arnie Vetter
Dealing with insulating foams at end-of-life can be challenging, often because of their low density and high volumes. Historically, mixing them with other demolition waste has been the prevailing practice. However, pressure on landfill capacity in some regions and increasing concerns about hazardous substances in the products are driving the need for alternative outlets. In Europe, these pressures are particularly prevalent, where the focus is also turning towards greater resource efficiency. This paper assesses the latest thinking on end-of-life management of polymeric foams, based on recent studies and surveys and explores ways in which regulatory pressures are driving innovation and, in some areas, creating new markets. The paper seeks to illustrate that well-designed regulation and/or financial incentives can add value to the lifecycle of well-known and abundant products already present in the built environment. However, it will also highlight areas where ill-thought out regulation or poor co-operation between different strands of regulation can lead to unintended consequences.