Sustainability technology leader Nextek, in collaboration with flexible packaging expert Coveris, has unveiled a strategic partnership to revolutionize the mechanical recycling of flexible films through the innovative COtooCLEAN process. This collaboration aims to convert post-consumer polyolefin (PE & PP) packaging waste into high-quality, food-grade recycled resins and films.
This strategic alliance builds upon Nextek’s notable achievement of winning the ‘Circular Solutions for Flexibles’ award from the Alliance to End Plastic Waste (AEPW). The recognition acknowledges Nextek’s pioneering COtooCLEAN technology, which employs a unique waterless cleaning and decontamination method to produce food-grade recycled materials from post-consumer plastic film.
As part of their partnership, Nextek and Coveris are developing a demonstration plant in the UK. This facility will implement COtooCLEAN technology at an industrial scale, with comprehensive trials scheduled to generate the data necessary for regulatory compliance. Furthermore, the partnership aims to showcase this innovative technology to industry stakeholders. Their ultimate objective is to make this groundbreaking process available on a global scale, addressing one of the most significant challenges in recycling.
Professor Edward Kosior, CEO and founder of Nextek, emphasizes the importance of this collaboration: “COtooCLEAN has the potential to transform plastic film recycling. Since winning the AEPW award, we’ve advanced from prototype development to food-grade compliance trials. Partnering with Coveris represents the next major step forward. Together, we’ll demonstrate this technology at scale and work towards a circular economy for plastic films.”
The COtooCLEAN process effectively addresses a critical issue in the recycling of PE and PP films, which are notoriously challenging to decontaminate. By enabling food-grade recycling, this technology signifies a substantial advancement in fostering a sustainable future for food and beverage packaging.
Christian Kolarik, CEO of Coveris, conveys his enthusiasm: “We’re truly at the forefront of this topic and are thrilled to collaborate with Nextek on this project – a breakthrough in food-grade mechanical recycling. Sustainability is central to Coveris’ ‘No Waste’ strategy, and this partnership represents another milestone in our mission to eliminate plastic waste. Alongside our ReCover recycling entity and collaboration with Interzero, we are making significant strides toward converting waste into valuable resources.”
By joining forces, Nextek and Coveris illustrate how innovation and collaboration can yield impactful solutions. Their partnership is a crucial step toward achieving a circular economy for plastics and tackling one of the world’s most urgent recycling challenges.
Join Coveris at the Plastics Recycling Show Europe, the premier event for the plastics recycling industry and supply chain in mainland Europe, taking place from 1 – 2 April at RAI Amsterdam, stand G116.
