UPM Raflatac’s RafCycle Recycling Solution Expanding to China
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UPM Raflatac , Mills River, N.C., USA, is expanding its RafCycle® recycling solution to China. RafCycle services were launched in Changshu on Dec. 6, 2017, during a customer event. RafCycle was also promoted at Labelexpo Asia in Shanghai on December 5-8. The first RafCycle partner certificate in China was awarded to Hangzhou Changli, which is a label converter established in 2010 (photo below).
Hangzhou Changli is also the 100th RafCycle partner globally. The number of RafCycle partners has grown increasingly over the years as sustainability has become one of the key drivers in the labeling industry. Today more than 10,000 tons of label liner waste is being recycled in Europe through the RafCycle program. UPM Raflatac is actively searching for new RafCycle partners and the expansion to China is an important step in this process.
The paper liner waste generated by the RafCycle partners in China will be delivered to Hangzhou Fulun Ecology Technology Co., where the paper liner waste can be recycled back into pulp and paper.
RafCycle is an innovative recycling concept that offers a new life for label liner waste which provides numerous benefits to printers, packers, brand-owners, and, of course, the environment. Turning waste into a resource is a key concept in the circular economy and an important part of the company’s approach to sustainability.
"The recycling of wood fibers in paper products is a closed-loop solution and a shining example of sustainability at its best", said Sharon Xiao, Sustainability Manager, APAC, UPM Raflatac. "We see sustainability as a key for success and a driver of innovation."
