According to analysts, approximately 400,000 tonnes and 106 billion pieces of rigid food packaging inundate the global market every year, with a vast majority (90%) ending up in landfills or being incinerated. This highlights the pressing need for handling recyclable plastic packaging material to prevent environmental damage.
In response to this issue, Faerch has invested in industrializing its innovative Cirrec technology over five years. This technology aims to ensure that plastic packaging materials are recycled and reused instead of being wasted in landfills or incinerated. The newly established Cirrec plant, with a processing capacity of 60,000 tonnes, will focus on turning used PET trays from household waste into reusable products, aligning with Faerch’s commitment to creating a circular economy.
Key highlights of Faerch’s sustainability efforts include the production of around 24 billion products annually, with the new Cirrec plant set to contribute three billion “truly circular” products. Faerch is also leading the charge in converting materials from PS and PP to PET, the only material that can be recycled indefinitely. Currently achieving circularity for 13% of its products, Faerch aims to reach 100% circularity and establish a global commodity of circular tray material for the industry.
Lars Gade Hansen, CEO of Faerch Group, emphasized the company’s dedication to transforming the industry from a linear to a circular business model. He highlighted the importance of collaboration in this transformation and invited stakeholders to join Faerch on this journey towards sustainability.
During the grand opening event, sustainability advocate Paul Polman urged businesses to adopt a Net Positive approach, where companies give back to society and the environment more than they take. Jan Thorsgaard Nielsen, CIO of A.P. Møller Holding A/S, noted that true circularity in PET has become a reality in the Benelux, Germany, and Sweden.
Overall, Faerch’s innovative approach to sustainable packaging and commitment to circular business practices showcase the company’s leadership in promoting a more environmentally friendly and responsible industry.
