Tetra Pak and ACE collaborate with Panda to advance robotic sorting and carton recycling in Ireland
The Alliance for Beverage Cartons and the Environment – ACE Ireland, has announced a new partnership with Panda aimed at improving the recycling process of cartons placed on the Irish market.
As part of the collaboration, Tetra Pak, along with other ACE Ireland members funded the installation of state-of-the-art robotic sorting technology at Panda’s materials recovery facility (MRF) in Ballymount, Dublin.
Read more at ACE Ireland website.
Beverage carton sorting and recycling in Ireland
Enhancing carton recycling rates in Ireland was crucial for promoting a circular economy and reducing the environmental impact of used beverage cartons. Traditional processes often faced limitations in accurately sorting cartons from other materials, hindering efficient recycling practices.
The solution
New robotic beverage carton sorting technology
Under the joint effort, ACE Ireland invested in implementing new robotic sorting technology at Panda's materials recovery facility (MRF) in Ballymount, Dublin. The cutting-edge AI system, developed by Recycleye and Fanuc, possesses the capability to scan and identify 28 different classes of materials, including beverage cartons. With precision, the robot accurately identifies, picks, and sorts cartons into dedicated streams, streamlining the recycling process.
The solution
New robotic beverage carton sorting technology
Under the joint effort, ACE Ireland invested in implementing new robotic sorting technology at Panda's materials recovery facility (MRF) in Ballymount, Dublin. The cutting-edge AI system, developed by Recycleye and Fanuc, possesses the capability to scan and identify 28 different classes of materials, including beverage cartons. With precision, the robot accurately identifies, picks, and sorts cartons into dedicated streams, streamlining the recycling process.
Improving carton recycling in Ireland
The automated sorting technology delivers an impressive capacity of 33,000 picks over a ten-hour shift, improving carton sorting efficiency. Once sorted, the materials are sent to ACE's specialised carton recycling facility in the UK.
The collaboration between Tetra Pak, ACE Ireland, and Panda has a far-reaching impact on carton recycling in Ireland. By integrating advanced robotic technology, the recycling process is optimised, leading to higher carton recycling rates and reduced waste.
The initiative aligns with ACE's objective of promoting beverage cartons as a safe, circular, sustainable packaging solution with low-carbon benefits. The improved recycling practices contribute to achieving the industry's target of a 70% recycling rate by 2030.
A journey towards achieving the 70% carton recycling rate by 2030
The launch of dedicated carton sorting at Ireland's largest MRF in Ballymount marks a crucial milestone in the journey towards achieving the 70% carton recycling rate by 2030. Tetra Pak, ACE Ireland, and Panda will continue to work together to optimise recycling processes further, explore additional technological advancements, and actively support the circular economy.
Through continuous innovation and strategic partnerships, the aim is to create a more sustainable future for beverage carton recycling in Ireland, setting an example for other regions and industries.
Where:
Ireland
Entities involved:
Panda, ACE
