From technical feasibility to institutional misalignment: stakeholder insights into PVC circularity across the value chain

Purpose The global polyvinyl chloride (PVC) market continues to expand, making PVC one of the most widely produced and utilised plastics worldwide. Despite its versatility, a substantial proportion of PVC waste is landfilled, generating significant environmental and public health risks. This study investigates the key challenges and drivers influencing PVC circularity and develops strategic pathways to enhance material recovery across the PVC value chain, with particular attention to the Australian context. Design/methodology/approach A qualitative research design was employed, integrating semi-structured interviews with an analysis of industry reports, project deliverables and institutional publications. Data were examined through qualitative content analysis, triangulating interview and documentary evidence with existing literature to strengthen analytical robustness. The analysis was structured around five stages of the PVC value chain: raw materials and resin production, compounding and conversion, installation and in-use, end-of-life (EoL) management and industry associations and governance. Findings The findings indicate that PVC circularity is constrained by the absence of binding policy measures, inadequate recycling infrastructure and weak market incentives for secondary PVC materials. Conversely, progress is driven by regulatory reform, cross-sector collaboration and technological innovation in recycling and recovery systems. The study further situates these insights within Australia's emerging circular economy (CE) agenda, which prioritises material efficiency, waste reduction, product stewardship and investment in circular infrastructure. Research limitations/implications This study is based on qualitative interviews and document analysis, which may limit generalisability across all PVC sectors. The findings reflect current Australian conditions and may not fully capture international variations. Originality/value This study provides an empirically grounded and strategic contribution by identifying systemic gaps across the PVC value chain and aligning sectoral interventions with long-term CE and recovery objectives. It offers evidence-based recommendations for government, policymakers and industry stakeholders to accelerate PVC circularity in Australia, while also supporting broader international transitions toward sustainable materials management.