First Closed Loop Recycling Solution For FIBCs
April 20, 2023
- Press release -
Packaging manufacturer and distributor LC Packaging and plastic recycler Healix have developed a high-quality closed loop recycling solution for FIBCs. A first in the industry. The closed loop includes the collection of used FIBCs (big bags) at LC Packaging customers’ locations that are being processed at Healix’ state-of-the-art recycling plant in Maastricht in the Netherlands, to create high-quality recycled polypropylene (rPP). The rPP is used in the production of new FIBCs containing 30% rPP at LC Packaging’s production facility Dutch-Bangla Pack Ltd.
Creating a circular future
This new closed loop solution is the result of one and a half years of testing and ongoing development. After investments from both LC Packaging and Healix, several testing rounds, and the development of a fit-for-purpose recycling facility, the perfect packaging design and recycling infrastructure was created to close the loop.
Marcel Alberts, Founder of Healix: “At Healix we are convinced that we can only solve the ‘plastic problem’ that is destroying our beautiful planet, by working together with industry leaders worldwide. It must be a joint effort and with LC Packaging’s commitment, we can take the next step in breaking the plastic wave by creating a circular future for plastic fiber waste. Our common ambitions are great, the material has great value, and with this closed loop solution its value is increasing even more.“
Marcel Schouten, Director FIBC at LC Packaging: “This is a big step forward in using high-quality transport packaging in a sustainable manner. At LC Packaging, we have set ourselves an ambitious goal to have 50% of recycled materials in our packaging by 2030. With Healix as our partner, we believe we are right on track to make this ambition a realisation. We are only at the start but see a bright future ahead of us. We recently introduced our LC Carbon Footprint Calculator that allows us to calculate the carbon footprint of a customer’s FIBC very precisely. It also shows the savings possible when using recycled materials or switching to reuse. How great is it that we can now also offer a closed loop?”
Designed for Recycling
The closed loop solution for FIBCs is a first in the industry that is set to release a Designed for Recycling (Dfr) Standard very soon. The standard has been designed together by members of EFIBCA and Eurojute, the FIBC industry associations in Europe. The [Draft] DfR Standard is created to enable closed loop recycling in the FIBC industry on a larger scale by enhancing the recyclability of FIBCs so that FIBCs can be recycled into new flexible packaging. Marcel Schouten: “The more FIBCs are bought ‘Designed for Recycling’, the more FIBCs can join the closed loop. We need the help of all FIBC users to do so. Let’s join forces for a better world for future generations to enjoy!”
Plastic Recycling Show Europe 2023
On 10 and 11 May 2023, Healix will be present at the Plastics Recycling Show Europe (PRSE) 2023. LC Packaging will join Healix at their stand A53 where the closed loop solution FIBC will also be showcased.
About Healix
Healix is a Dutch clean-tech start-up that helps breaking the plastic wave by creating a circular future for plastic fiber waste. We create circular polymers using discarded ropes and nets from fishing and farming and other technical textiles like big bags and geo textiles. More information on healix.eco
