Piping in Perspective:
Selecting Pipe for Plumbing in Buildings

This article compares the performance and environmental impacts of common piping choices for use in potable water supply, and drain, waste and vent plumbing. Until recently, copper pipe dominated the market in piping for potable water as well as heating and cooling systems. Despite its recycled content and recyclability, life-cycle assessments indicate that copper is the most energy-intensive and polluting potable-water piping choice, and can be more expensive than other choices due to high copper prices. There are several plastic alternatives to...