Several companies have announced progress toward recycled-content goals and new products made from recycled plastics. Here’s a roundup of recent developments.
Logitech International exceeds goal
Electronics brand owner Logitech International said it exceeded its commitment to incorporate post-consumer plastic into its mice and keyboards, hitting 65% when it had promised 50% by the end of 2021.
According to a 2021 sustainability report, the company now has 18 product lines using recycled plastic, which eliminated an estimated 7,100 tons of virgin plastic in 2021.
Samsung, DSM Engineering Materials to create recycled smartphone
Netherlands-based DSM Engineering Materials announced it is providing Samsung Electronics with recycled plastic to create the first smartphone made with recycled fishing nets.
Akulon RePurposed polymer is produced by DSM using fishing nets collected from the Indian Ocean. The new Galaxy S22 series smartphones and Tab S8 series tablets will contain the plastic in key components, such as the Galaxy S22 series’ key bracket and inner cover of the S Pen, as well as Tab S8 series’ inner support bracket.
Pregis announces recycled air cushioning film
Protective packaging manufacturer Pregis announced a new line of recycled-content air cushioning films for use with its systems in Europe.
Renew Zero is a PE film made from 50% post-consumer content and 50% bio-derived material such as cellulose fibers.
Malie Organics unveils 100% PCR bottle
Hawaii-based organic beauty products provider Malie Organics’ shampoo and conditioner will now come in 100% PCR bottles.
To start, two fragrances will be available in the new bottles: koke’e and mango nectar.
Fortum develops ‘self-rising’ PCR chair
European energy company Fortum developed a post-consumer plastic chair that is self-rising, meaning if it falls down it rights itself.
The Virén Chair is meant to showcase how recycled plastic compounds can be used for more technical and challenging products.
