More than 2.6 trillion gallons of treated water leak each year from antiquated and corroding iron and cement pipes. The dire condition of much of our nation’s decaying water infrastructure, combined with associated health costs, underscores the need for smart investments in drinking water and wastewater infrastructure.

Unfortunately, historical local and state procurement specifications do not always allow utility contractors to consider installing PVC pipe and other alternative materials in water and sewer infrastructure projects. Research shows ductile iron pipe costs ratepayers about 30 percent more in closed-bid cities than it does for the same ductile iron pipe in open-bid cities where PVC and other alternative materials are allowed to compete for the project.

The Vinyl Institute advocates for increased funding for water infrastructure programs and open competition in designing and bidding on piping systems.

Sustainable water infrastructure improvements for drinking and wastewater purposes are essential and can contribute to a more sustainable society. Innovative PVC pipe provides a sustainable solution by improving the durability and lifecycle performance of pipe systems, reducing energy use, and lowering costs for ratepayers. A March 2018 study also found that PVC pipes have fewer breaks and require less maintenance than pipes made of other materials.

Read more about in our latest report “PVC Pipe: The Proven Solution for America’s Water Infrastructure.“