Cambridge City Council has partnered with Eurocell, Aran Insulation, Asset Fineline, and Saint-Gobain to mobilise the UK’s first fully closed-loop PVC-U recycling project.

The project included Eurocell’s Modus 75mm profile window system, which achieves a U-Value of 0.8 with triple glazing. The windows were specified for their high thermal performance and their ability to be recycled at the end of their lifespan, with the PVC-U frames being reprocessed into new window profiles.

The closed-loop recycling process, implemented by Eurocell and Asset Fineline, meant the old PVC-U windows, once removed, were collected, recycled, and manufactured into new frames. 

Saint-Gobain supported the project through its Glass Forever program, recycling end-of-life glass and producing high-performance glazing to complement the Modus window system.

The retrofitted homes now meet near-EnerPHit energy standards, which focus on enhancing energy efficiency by improving insulation, airtightness, and ventilation. Near-EnerPHit closely aligns with the EnerPHit standards set by the Passivhaus Institute, targeting minimal energy use for heating and cooling in existing properties

Kelly Hibbert, head of commercial sales at Eurocell, said: “The Modus window system played a key role in achieving a seamless aesthetic design, while also delivering considerable cost savings. Combining exceptional energy efficiency with sustainability, the system incorporates 50% recycled material, underscoring its environmental credentials. This project highlights how the right sustainable specification can deliver a contemporary design without compromise.”