As a concrete example of circular economy in action, the first Finnish circular bag ESSI, made from post-consumer materials, is launched and will be available in K-Group stores.
ESSI circular bag contains more than 90% recycled materials. Its carbon footprint is significantly smaller than of other carrier bags’: plastic, paper, cotton, biodegradable plastic bags or recycled plastic bags (containing 60% recycled material).
“From the material processed by Ekokem we have developed the circular bag ESSI. It is the most environmentally friendly carrier bag alternative for carrying groceries from store to home,” said Amerplast CEO Børge Kvamme.
The use of recycled plastics significantly reduces the use of virgin raw materials. Recycling of the plastics also decreases the greenhouse gas emissions.
Today we have in place the necessary infrastructure for recycling, reuse and manufacture of circular bags, she says, noting that Finnish people can already leave the conventional plastic carrier bags behind them.
The separate collection of consumer packaging waste started last year in Finland in RINKI eco take-back points. Separately collected and valuable plastics are being processed with the latest technology as CIRCO recyclates in Ekokem‘s Plastic Refinery in Riihimäki.
Plastic recycling is a great opportunity not only for companies but also for the society and the environment. Valuable materials are circulating and nothing goes to waste, according to Head of Recycling & Energy at Ekokem Kalle Saarimaa.
Source : China Plastic and Rubber Journal
