The role of polyvinyl chloride in achieving circularity in the built environment: A comprehensive review

The world is struggling with the enormous challenge of managing Plastic Waste (PW), which is over 400 million tonnes (Mt) annually and is the world's largest and most rapidly accumulating waste stream. Polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a versatile synthetic polymer, is the third most sold commodity plastic used in various industries. To promote sustainable development and implement the Circular Economy (CE) concepts, reuse, recycling, and remanufacturing have become priorities for PVC circularity. This research study examines the current trends in PVC circularity and gaps for future research directions in connecting Waste Management (WM) to achieve CE practices. Hence, the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) protocol was undertaken, and two databases, namely Scopus and Web of Science, were used. The findings from the systematic literature review show that PVC circularity research has advanced significantly in recent years, with an emphasis on chemical and mechanical recycling as well as the creation of novel methods to improve material recovery and lower toxicity. However, gaps remain in circularity-directed research and in exploring efficient recycling processes for PVC waste. Addressing these challenges will require concerted efforts to improve stakeholder collaboration, build better communication channels, and invest in infrastructure supporting circular practices. By strengthening these areas, the PVC can make significant progress toward enhancing circularity, reducing environmental impact, and contributing to broader sustainability goals. The findings suggest prioritising effective recycling methods, material flow analysis, and policy frameworks to facilitate PVC's transition to a CE, consequently minimising environmental impact and resource dependency.