Presentation of the new unified medical vinyl platform, global knowledge exchanges, and practical solutions for circular healthcare.
At the VinylPlus® Sustainability Forum 2025 (VSF2025) in Paris, VinylPlus Healthcare was presented to delegates from the entire European PVC value chain and beyond. Project Leader Ole Grøndahl Hansen introduced the new platform, explaining how it brings together the former PVCMed Alliance, VinylPlus® Med, and VinylPlus® PharmPack into one coordinated effort focused on sustainability, circularity, and innovation in medical vinyl applications.
Launched in April 2025, VinylPlus Healthcare is now the central hub for promoting the responsible use of PVC in healthcare. The platform supports recycling systems for medical devices and pharmaceutical packaging, encourages collaboration across the value chain, and advocates for evidence-based decision-making on material use.
At VSF2025, VinylPlus Healthcare was showcased through its own dedicated “house” featuring videos, brochures, and expert discussions. Two flagship projects were highlighted: VinylPlus Med and VinylPlus PharmPack.
VinylPlus Med focuses on the recycling of single-use medical devices such as tubing and masks. After a successful pilot in 23 Belgian hospitals, the project is now expanding to France in collaboration with Terra and Medtronic. During the Forum, Thomas Cocqueel of Terra presented the project’s benefits, including up to 2 kg CO₂ equivalent saved per kg of tubing recycled compared to incineration, and strong engagement from hospitals.
VinylPlus PharmPack addresses the recyclability of PVC pharmaceutical blister packaging. The project brings together film manufacturers, recyclers, and VinylPlus to demonstrate that mechanical recycling of blisters is technically viable and environmentally beneficial. A new video was released at the Forum to present the initiative and its partners.
VSF2025 also featured an international exchange with the ASEAN Vinyl Council Association and Chulalongkorn University’s Petroleum and Petrochemical College. The meeting explored how European PVC medical recycling experience could support similar efforts in Southeast Asia, while also learning from Thailand’s established post-consumer recycling of dialysis bags.
Through its presence at VSF2025, VinylPlus Healthcare confirmed its role as the European platform for advancing circular and sustainable use of vinyl in healthcare – built on collaboration, practical solutions, and shared knowledge.
