Can Recycled Plastic Fencing Really Be Better for the Environment than Wood?

In recent years, the use of recycled plastic fencing has been on the rise, often marketed as a sustainable alternative to traditional wood fencing. At first glance, it seems like a perfect solution—transforming waste into something useful, reducing the strain on natural resources, and providing a durable, low-maintenance option for property boundaries and roadside applications. But does recycled plastic fencing really stand up to scrutiny when compared to wood in terms of environmental impact?

Let’s dive into the details to explore whether recycled plastic fencing is truly better for the environment than wood, or if wood is still the more eco-friendly choice.

Environmental Sustainability: Comparing Wood and Recycled Plastic Fencing

Wood has been used as a fencing material for centuries, and for good reason. When sourced from sustainably managed forests, wood is one of the most environmentally responsible materials available. Trees absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere as they grow, storing carbon within their fibres. When wood is harvested and used for products like fencing, that carbon remains locked away, helping to reduce greenhouse gases.

Moreover, wood is a renewable resource. As long as the wood comes from responsibly managed forests that practice replanting and sustainable logging techniques, it can be continually replenished without depleting forests. Many wood products today come with certifications such as the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) label, ensuring that the wood is sourced in an environment and socially responsible way.

The Biodegradability Factor

One of the biggest advantages wood has over recycled plastic is its natural biodegradability. Wood will decompose over time, returning nutrients to the soil and leaving little to no lasting environmental impact.

In contrast, recycled plastic fencing is made from materials that do not break down naturally. While it's true that these plastics are given a second life through recycling, the fencing itself may eventually end up in a landfill, where it could take hundreds of years to decompose. In some cases, plastic fencing may not be recyclable again at the end of its life, compounding the issue of plastic waste rather than solving it.

Energy Consumption in Production

Wood fencing requires minimal processing. Trees are cut, treated, and shaped into posts and panels, all with relatively low energy input compared to plastic production.

The process of creating recycled plastic fencing, on the other hand, involves collecting, sorting, cleaning, melting, and reforming plastic waste—a highly energy-intensive process. While this does divert plastic from landfills, the energy required to produce plastic fencing significantly outpaces the energy needed to process wood.

Additionally, many types of plastic fencing require the addition of chemical stabilizers, UV protectants, and colorants to enhance their durability and appearance. These chemicals, along with the energy demands of plastic production, can offset some of the environmental benefits of using recycled materials.

Sustainability Across the Fencing Product Lifecycle

When we look at the entire lifecycle of a fencing material—from sourcing to manufacturing to disposal—wood consistently proves to be more sustainable than plastic.

• Sourcing: Wood can be sourced sustainably and locally in many regions, reducing the need for long-distance transportation and minimising carbon emissions.

• Manufacturing: Wood requires far less energy and chemical processing than plastic.

• End of Life: When a wood fence reaches the end of its useful life, it can either decompose naturally, be repurposed, or even be burned as a carbon-neutral source of energy. Plastic, on the other hand, is likely to end up as non-biodegradable waste.

The Aesthetic and Ecological Benefits of Wood

Wood’s natural look and feel make it an aesthetically pleasing choice for fences in both rural and urban settings. But beyond its appearance, wood fencing also provides ecological benefits. As a natural material, wood doesn’t disrupt local ecosystems in the same way that plastic might. In fact, wooden fences can even support biodiversity by providing habitats for insects, birds, and small mammals.

In contrast, plastic fencing—while durable—can introduce synthetic chemicals into the environment, particularly if it starts to degrade over time due to weathering. Plastic is also far less likely to support wildlife in the same way wood can.

Long-Term Considerations: Maintenance and Durability

Advocates of recycled plastic fencing often highlight its durability and low maintenance. It’s true that plastic doesn’t rot, warp, or attract insects the way untreated wood might. However, with the right treatment, wood fences can last for decades with only minimal maintenance. Pressure-treated wood is protected against the elements and can remain in good condition. The addition of a Postsaver +PLUS ground-line total barrier sleeve will guarantee the post for 40 years, a lifespan not available with plastic alternatives.

Plastic, while low maintenance, is not entirely immune to weathering. Over time, exposure to UV rays can cause discoloration, and thermal expansion in varying temperatures can lead to warping. While these issues are less frequent than with wood, they still exist—and plastic fencing cannot be repaired as easily as wood. Often, damaged plastic fences require entire sections to be replaced, leading to additional material waste.

The Emotional and Economic Connection

There is also an emotional and economic argument in favour of wood fencing.

Wood is a natural material that blends beautifully with both countryside landscapes and modern gardens. It’s a material that has been trusted for centuries and continues to be valued for its sustainability and beauty.

Additionally, wood is often a more affordable option. While recycled plastic fencing can have a high upfront cost, wood is typically less expensive and readily available, particularly when sourced locally.

Conclusion: The Verdict on Wood vs. Recycled Plastic Fencing

While recycled plastic fencing offers certain advantages, especially in terms of durability and the reuse of waste materials, wood remains the environmentally superior choice when sustainably sourced. Its renewable nature, biodegradability, and lower energy consumption in production make it a much more eco-friendly option for fencing, especially when considering long-term environmental impact.

For those looking to reduce their carbon footprint, support local ecosystems, and invest in a renewable resource, wood is the clear winner. When responsibly sourced, treated for longevity, and maintained properly, wood fencing provides not only a durable, sustainable solution but also an aesthetic that enhances the natural beauty of the environment.

In the debate over whether recycled plastic fencing can be better for the environment than wood, the answer is clear: wood remains the most environmentally responsible choice for those who prioritise sustainability, beauty, and the well-being of our planet.

Get in touch with Postsaver

With over 10 million products sold to customers globally, Postsaver is the leading manufacturer of products proven to extend the life of wooden fence and gate posts. Get in touch with the Postsaver Team to find out more about Postsaver +PLUS, our latest Postsaver rot protector product.