Innovative polyAl-based pallet launch marks success in Italy
Tetra Pak and Lucart, a leading player in the recycling arena in Europe, collaborated to address a growing challenge to advance carton recycling and create new solutions for non-fibre components.
As Lucart's plant in Tuscany, Italy, amplified its commitment to recycling used beverage cartons, a surge in polyAl rejects presented a logistical hurdle. To tackle this issue and fortify polyAl recycling, Lucart joined CPR System, a major player in retail logistics.
Managing polyAl rejects
As Lucart expanded its beverage carton recycling volumes, it faced the issue of an increasing polyAl rejects volume to manage properly. The company explored a novel approach to ensure the stability and continuity of polyAl rejects outlet converting into recycling businesses.
Returnable polyAl-based pallets
To ensure a reliable outlet for polyAl, Lucart and CPR System collaborated to create Newpal in 2019, a company dedicated to pioneering the production of returnable polyAl-based pallets. This innovative venture aimed to replace wooden pallets with those made predominantly from polyAl, offering a sustainable and durable solution to managing polyAl rejects and creating a market demand for recycled products.
Going further, Newpal invested in a state-of-the-art plant using a low-pressure injection moulding process. This facility began operations in early 2023, with the capability to produce up to 250,000 polyAl-based pallets per year, containing an impressive 70% recycled polyAl. By creating a robust polyAl outlet, Newpal addressed the logistical challenge and contributed significantly to Tetra Pak's key mission of expanding carton package collection and recycling, diverting materials from landfills.
Additional production lines
The successful launch of the plant has generated substantial interest among logistics operators and retailers. Recognising the potential environmental and logistical benefits, discussions are underway to support an additional investment for a second production line. This expansion initiative aims to double the production of pallets, further amplifying the impact on polyAl recycling rates in Italy.
Newpal's venture aligns seamlessly with Tetra Pak's commitment to sustainable practices, offering a tangible solution to the challenges posed by polyAl rejects. As the discussions for expansion progress, Newpal stands as a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation in driving positive environmental change.
Where:
Italy
Companies involved:
Lucart, CPR System, Newpal
For more information:
Lorenzo.Nannariello@tetrapak.com
