APPLICATION OF RECYCLED PLASTICS AND ITS COMPOSITES IN THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT

Composite materials made from mixtures containing proportions of post-consumer polythene waste provided useful structural materials for many purposes, with physical properties sometimes superior to timber (Ofoegbu, Nwodo & Okonkwo, 2005). Durability, low maintenance and long-life make them economic alternatives (Waste and Resource Action Programme- WRAP, 2006). The text discusses the application of recycled waste plastic and its composite materials in the built environment: landscape, buildings and in alternative energy supply, in place of fossil fuel. It also compares the benefits of its use to that of new or ‘virgin ’ materials. Consideration is also made of the benefit of recycling plastics and other waste materials to the environment, especially with respect to climate change. It recommends a regional effort to recycle plastics instead of banning their use. The paper concludes that recycled plastic materials and composites should replace new materials in the built environment