PVC factory for door and window systems in Afghanistan In Northern Afghanistan, construction wood is scarce. Most available wood is not appropriate for a climate that is known for its hot summers and very cold winters, including great daily fluctuations in temperatures. The local partner has run his business for the last twelve years importing PVC profiles from Turkey and selling them to other companies and making them into custom-made window frames and doors. Because of the high cost of transport he discussed with his Turkish supplier the possibility to establish a profile making factory in Afghanistan. As a test, the Turkish supplier set up a small production line at the local partner's workshop that recycles PVC profile scrap into door panels. This has functioned successfully for the last two years, recycling all PVC profile waste in the province. The partners decided to set up a joint venture, making PVC profiles and selling them within Afghanistan and eventually to neighbouring countries. For the applicant this is an opportunity to expand his market to Central Asia. For Afghanistan, it enables the construction sector to use reliable, well isolated and recyclable frames and doors for a price that is much lower than that of wooden frames. Because of political instability it is impossible to raise a loan for this investment. Therefore, PSI decided to finance the pilot investment.Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)The production contains little risk for employees as the systems are closed and the PVC is only heated in hot water, not burned. All PVC can be recycled and the water system is closed. The applicant has strict safety rules and the design of the factory is based on these rules with separate and locked storage for harmful chemicals, waterproof floors, a tank for waste water in case of spillage. There is, however, no way to dispose of waste water. A solution to this problem is part of the required results.Impact•	Employment and working conditionsThe joint venture will pay its employees at least 20% above living wage, providing basic fringe benefits such as meals and medical treatment. All employees will be trained.•	Innovation / Transfer of knowledgeThe applicant has already trained the operators of the small scrap recycling line. They are now able to operate it and do most of the repairs. He will train the operators of the PVC production line as well.•	Chain effectsThere are no local suppliers of raw materials involved.The project has a very positive impact on local customers. They will have a reliable supply of profiles, enabling them to expand their business, especially in construction.•	Impact on the sectorThe project has little impact on other parties in the sector, besides the direct customers and construction contractors.•	EnvironmentPVC profiles are fully recyclable, leaving no waste. The production of the profiles is a closed system that recycles its water and evaporated chemicals. There is a separate tank for spilled chemicals, and a contract with a waste processing company.•	Position of womenThe project will employ women only for administration and marketing (20% of the work force). For Afghanistan, this is the only way that women can be employed. Mixed work floors are culturally not acceptable.•	Impact on waterThe production line is connected to a water recycling system, limiting the water loss to an absolute minimum. As water is scarce in this part of Afghanistan, this is a considerable contribution to water security. To set up a processing unit that can produce 2,400 tons of PVC profiles yearly.