Environmentalism, is a broad philosophy and social movement regarding concerns for environmental conservation and improvement of the environment.

PIPA aims to help ensure that the environmental impact of plastics pipeline systems throughout their life cycle meets or exceeds legislative and community standards.

The future of the plastic pipeline systems industry is inseparable from the national and global pursuit of Sustainable Development. The key concept is to meet the needs of this generation without compromising the needs of future generations.

PIPA is conscious of the need to develop a program to better serve its member companies engaged in the effective integration of the environmental, social and wealth creation elements of plastic pipeline systems development. As part of this program, PIPA members have undertaken several initiatives which include:

• The manufacture of pipeline products with a life expectancy in excess of 100 years.
• Development of new products that consume less raw materials than alternative products, and thus consume less energy through the stages of production, distribution, and working life performance.
• Ensuring that all pipeline products are recyclable.
• Eliminating potentially harmful materials to the environment from plastics formulations.

The recognition of importance of sustainability has cast a different light on the need for recycling. Products at the end of their useful life are now seen as a potential resource for the future. Major consumer goods manufacturers have recognised the need to conserve resources and have developed or are developing programs for recycling their products.

As a part of PIPA's commitment, frequently asked questions about plastics pipe materials or pipeline systems are answered on the FAQs page. Common questions for PVC relate to sustainability since PVC has come under significant scrutiny due to the interest of green groups. Polyolefins on the other hand have no sustainability issues and questions mainly reflect interest in pipe properties.