Champions of sustainability
We strive to lead the way with a range of sustainability initiatives that enable the responsible manufacture and supply of decking boards in the UK.
Our sustainable manufacturing ethos
We’re committed to making sure our manufacturing processes are as sustainable as possible. Our decking products don’t only look the part, but outperform timber boards when it comes to the environment.
All the raw materials used within our production processes are sustainably sourced from our trusted suppliers. Our wood fibre is certified by the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC). This means it’s sourced from forests that are managed responsibly, with full traceability through the supply chain.
We stay in regular contact with our suppliers to make sure they continue to meet our standards and any new sustainability expectations.
Decking made from sustainable materials
At Ecodek, we manufacture the core of all of our composite deck boards using a high proportion of recycled materials.
Wood polymer composite decking
We combine wood flour and polymer pellets to extrude our wood-polymer composite decking boards. Of the material that makes up the boards, approximately:
60% is sustainably-sourced wood fibre. With PEFC certification (PEFC/16‑37‑1226), we have reassurance that:
- The wood comes from responsibly managed forests
- Environmental impacts are controlled and monitored
- The supply chain is fully traceable
- Compliance is checked through independent audits
35% is recycled HDPE polymer. This is recycled plastic from consumer waste, such as milk bottles or food packaging.
When the boards reach end of life, they are 100% recyclable.
Please note: Selected ranges have a durable polymer cap for long-lasting performance.
PVC decking
Our extra-wide decking boards are made from recycled polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a durable and low-maintenance plastic. We manufacture the core of the boards from 100% recycled materials, which is then topped with a plastic coating to prevent staining and fading.
Aluminium decking
The boards in our aluminium decking system, Adek, are made from 100% recycled aluminium. Only around 5% of the energy needed for primary aluminium production is required to make the recycled material, yet the end product retains the same quality and performance as the virgin material.
Adek is the first fire-rated decking system made from 100% recycled aluminium that is available in the UK. The boards and components are completely recyclable as well, making Adek a truly sustainable option.
We’re incredibly proud that it’s one of our flagship products.
Our ISO certifications
Encouraging and spotting ways we can reduce our impact on the environment is at the core of everything we do. Ecodek meets internationally recognised ISO certifications to improve our quality management and environmental performance.
We’re regularly audited by independent, third-party certification bodies and use the feedback to improve the efficient use of our resources.
ISO 9001
We are certified to ISO 9001, the international standard for Quality Management Systems. The framework supports us to drive continuous improvement across our processes, from reducing waste to enhancing the quality of our products and services.
ISO 14001
Ecodek is also accredited to ISO 14001, the voluntary standard for Environmental Management Systems recognised globally. We follow the guidelines to increase our effectiveness in monitoring waste and managing resources, as well as complying with environmental laws and regulations.
ISO 50001
We’re part of the Epwin Group, which has achieved ISO 50001, the certification for Energy Management. ISO 50001 shows that we have a structured, audited approach to managing and improving our energy performance and supports the Group’s carbon‑reduction strategy.
Waste buy-back scheme
We’re proud to offer a waste buy-back scheme for all of our composite decking boards. Instead of leftover boards or decking offcuts going to waste, Ecodek buys them back from customers.
By recycling them back into our manufacturing process, we’re able to reduce the amount of decking waste that may otherwise end up in landfill – and reduce our demand on raw materials.
Chain of Custody
Our supply chain has a Chain of Custody that records the entire path between the ‘forest gate’ and the end customer. We can provide you with full traceability for all our sustainable decking products, from materials sourcing and manufacturing through to distribution.
Managing our carbon footprint
The carbon footprint of our recycled decking boards is as important to us as it is to you. We continuously review our production and manufacturing processes to understand how they impact the environment and reduce any negative effects.
- Since 2017, the production lines for our composite products at our Scunthorpe plant have achieved a carbon negative status.
- We don’t send any production waste to landfill. Materials from offcuts to rejected boards are granulated on site and reused in our manufacturing process. The waste is recycled to produce our Evolution range of decking.
Sustainable manufacturing in Britain
By manufacturing and selling our decking products in the UK, our goods have less distance to travel to get to your home or factory door. The carbon footprint of our materials is typically lower than those manufactured overseas, which require international shipping and logistics, and other carbon-intensive activities.
Shorter supply chains = a lower carbon footprint.
Custom deck board lengths
We also recognise that standard board lengths (3.6m) aren’t for everyone. Thanks to manufacturing our composite boards in-house, we can supply them in any length between 1.5m and 6m.
Use our decking calculator to only order what you need and benefit from:
- A professional finish
- Limiting waste
- Increasing the potential for cost savings
Industry-leading warranties
For confidence in the quality and longevity of your decking, look no further than our market-leading warranties. With a minimum of 25 years, you can feel peace of mind that your investment is built to last.
95% recycled & sustainably-sourced materials
Designed & manufactured in the UK
25 year performance warranty
Rated excellent by our customers
Fast delivery
Sustainability FAQs
How can I verify a decking supplier’s sustainability claims?
There are a couple of ways we recommend you check the supplier lives up to its sustainability creds:
- Ask for third-party certifications, such as ISO 9001, ISO 14001, or ISO 50001.
- If they state they’re members of organisations, such as Made in Britain, make sure their registration number matches the one stated by the organisation.
- Find out where they source raw materials like wood fibre from. Look for timber that comes from responsibly managed forests.
What are the benefits of wood composite decking for the environment?
In short, there are plenty! Some of the biggest environmental advantages of wood composite decking include:
- Reduces the amount of waste sent to landfill
We add recycled HDPE polymers to sustainably-sourced wood fibres to produce our wood-polymer composite decking. These polymers typically come from plastics in milk bottles and grocery bags, which may otherwise have ended up in landfill (or worse, the ocean).
- Protects forests
Choosing wood fibres from industrial byproducts (like sawdust) over newly harvested timber helps to preserve natural forests, which are vital to water cycles, biodiversity, and soil quality.
- Enhances longevity
Wood polymer composite is a highly durable material, so boards that are made from it will last for tens of years. They don’t need to be replaced as often as those made from other materials (like timber) either. Over time, wood polymer composite reduces the demand on raw materials.
- Easily repurposed
Composite deck boards that have reached end of life are fantastic for repurposing and reusing around your garden or home. From planters and raised flower beds to tables and benches, there are plenty of ways to give your old decking a new lease of life. Head to our blog, 10 ways to repurpose composite decking, for more inspiration.
View our full range of composite decking boards made from wood polymer.
Are there specific certifications that sustainable decking products should have?
ISO 14001 is one of the most famous international standards for environmental management systems and Ecodek is proud to follow its frameworks and guidelines. We also recommend you look for Chain of Custody, which provides full traceability for all of our products from material source and manufacturing to storage, sales, and distribution to the end customer.
Learn more: Behind our eco-credentials.
What is HDPE polymer?
High-density polyethylene (HDPE) is a thermoplastic polymer that’s widely used to make items such as milk bottles, toys, and outdoor furniture. HDPE is lightweight, but it’s also strong and durable. The polymer can also be recycled easily, making it a popular and cost-effective material.
At Ecodek, we combine HDPE polymer with wood fibres to make our composite decking boards. Thanks to the HDPE, the boards are highly durable and simple to care for. The polymer ensures they are resistant to rotting, warping, and fading, making wood-polymer composite decking an ideal alternative to timber boards.
Who verified the carbon-negative status of production lines at your Scunthorpe plant?
The BioComposites Centre of Bangor University carried out a lifecycle assessment on how our composite products are made on a cradle-to-factory-gate basis. The process accounted for all:
- Significant materials
- Transport
- Energy use
- Packaging inputs
The assessment was published in 2017 and deemed these production processes had the net effect of removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, rather than adding to it (carbon negative). For more information, please speak to our team.
What sustainable manufacturing practices does Ecodek follow?
We’re always working to improve our environmental performance. Some of the key actions we’ve already taken include:
- Recycling all production waste in‑house and reintroducing regrind and wood‑chip into new products
- Achieving ISO 50001 and monitoring our energy use and CO₂ emissions
- Removing all LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) usage on site
- Electrifying our MHE (materials handling equipment) fleet
- Upgrading our HGV fleet to Euro 6 engines to reduce emissions and improve fuel efficiency
- A zero‑waste approach to manufacturing
- Responsible wood fibre sourcing through PEFC certified suppliers
What is the PEFC?
Founded in 1999, the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC) is an international non-profit, non-governmental organisation that is dedicated to promoting sustainable forest management through independent third-party certification. It’s now the largest forest certification system in the world, with over 80 members globally. The PEFC provides forest owners with tools to demonstrate their responsible practices, which enables consumers and companies, like Ecodek, to buy timber sustainably.
Find out more about Ecodek.