Expanding the use of recycled materials

Paper-based carton packages can be transformed into a wide range of new products such as paper towels, tissue paper, secondary packaging, roof tiles, furniture, and much more. For carton recycling to reach its full potential, we are collaborating to expand the value of the recycled materials. This includes exploring applications and opportunities for the increased use of recycled carton materials. We also collaborate with research institutes and our plastic and paper suppliers to enhance the properties of those materials.

Collaborating for recycled materials use and applications

One example is with Recon Polymers in the Netherlands. We supported Recon in developing an innovative technology to recycle parts of the carton packages. Today they are actively exploring new applications for polyAl (polymer and aluminium from cartons), including working with Dutch producer Fauna Birdproducts BV on a range of products sold through major Dutch retailers.

As a result, a Dutch interior brand, Aecutal, began designing stylish 3D-printed furniture made of polyAl. This is just one of the collaborative initiatives we are working on to increase the value of recycled materials. We believe these projects are key to achieving a truly circular economy. 

In Italy, our longstanding partner Lucart continues to develop new uses for recycled carton materials. Lucart already produces two tissue paper brands, both of which carry the “Fiberpack®” label showing that they are made from recycled carton packages. They also produce soap and tissue dispensers made from polyAl for the EcoNatural product line. Now, following an increase in production capacity, Lucart is expanding. A new polyal recycling plant will produce polyal granules for plastic pallet manufacturing. With this addition, Lucart is not only making the recycling process more efficient, but also creating a market outlet for all components of the carton package.

These are just two of the collaborative initiatives we are working on to increase the value of recycled materials. We believe these projects are key to contributing to a circular economy.