As we all know, Outdoor advertising displays are typically printed on large pieces of material made of plastic.

The two most common materials, also known as substrates, are PVC (polyvinyl chloride) and PE (polyethylene).  Both materials can be recycled and/or downcycled into aftermarket products.

During the recycling processes of both substrates, one of largest challenges is separating the scrim (the layer of weaved material providing structure & strength to the overall substrate composition) from the base layer.

Today’s PVC substrate consists of 2 primary components; a base layer of PVC and a scrim, made from polyester.

Today’s PE substrate also consists of 2 primary components; a base layer of LDPE (low-density polyethylene) and a scrim, made from HDPE (high-density polyethylene).

In both cases, the primary components, on their own, produce desirable recycling opportunities.  However, due to the difficulty in separating the base layer from the scrim, the end result is typically undesirable in today’s recycling industry.

Neither of these materials are a long-term solution for the Outdoor industry.  Don’t be greenwashed by material manufacturers, vendors or distributers marketing PVC or PE as “Eco” or “Bio”.