Latest news with #circulareconomy
Zawya
7 hours ago
- Business
- Zawya
National roadmap to drive Oman's circular economy transition
Muscat – Oman has begun preparing a national roadmap for the circular economy, marking a key step in aligning its economic model with sustainability goals and low-carbon development. Ministry of Economy hosted the second workshop of the Circular Economy Gap Calculation Project on Monday to review initial results and consult stakeholders on the proposed strategy. The roadmap aims to serve as a guiding framework for policy integration and resource management in the coming decades. The project also seeks to define a baseline for measuring the circular economy gap and comparing Oman's performance with international benchmarks. It will assess how far the country is from adopting a circular model and provide tools to measure the environmental and economic impacts of new policies, including the creation of green jobs. H E Dr Nasser bin Rashid al Maawali, Undersecretary in Ministry of Economy, said the initiative is the first of its kind in the Middle East and North Africa. 'This national project will support sustainable, low-carbon development and create investment opportunities in renewable energy and the green economy.' Ahmed bin Saeed al Siyabi, Director General of Economic Policies and Programmes at the ministry, said the workshop was designed to discuss early findings and showcase models for measuring the outcomes of circular economy strategies. He also highlighted training programmes and a proposed digital platform that will display project data and outcomes. During the session, participants reviewed preliminary models and scenarios focused on the environmental and labour-market impacts of implementing circular economy practices. Group discussions were held to evaluate sector-specific strategies and refine the roadmap's policy recommendations. The workshop was part of wider consultations with government entities, the private sector, academic institutions and civil society. The ministry is working with Oman Environmental Services Holding Company (be'ah) and the Circle Economy Foundation to implement the project. The project reflects Oman's broader ambition to shift away from traditional linear consumption patterns and meet its carbon neutrality target by 2050. © Apex Press and Publishing Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Agilyx to purchase 44% stake in plastic recycling entity GreenDot Global
Agilyx has signed a binding agreement to acquire a 44% stake in GreenDot Global, a European waste plastic recycling entity. The deal values GreenDot at a post-money enterprise value of €197m ($228.9m). Agilyx will invest €52m for its 44% stake, which comprises around €32m in newly issued shares and approximately €20m in cash through a combination of primary and secondary share purchases. The transaction is being fully financed by existing investors through a €20m subordinated loan facility. This acquisition aims to bolster Agilyx's operations in Europe, creating a platform for sourcing and supplying feedstock to the recycling industry. Agilyx CEO Ranjeet Bhatia said: "GreenDot is the recognised industry leader in Europe, has tremendous momentum in the fast-developing advanced recycling market, and is a great complement to Agilyx's existing activities." GreenDot is claimed to be the largest circular plastic recycling platform in Europe and the third-largest recycling company in Germany. Operating in 29 countries, it processes more than one million tonnes of packaging waste annually, including over 400,000 tons of plastic. GreenDot is currently enhancing its advanced recycling capabilities by investing in sorting facilities in Austria and Italy. Projections for 2025 suggest that GreenDot's operations could generate approximately €400m in total sales, alongside double-digit earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortisation. GreenDot CEO Laurent Auguste said: 'Agilyx's investment and the business synergies we will develop between two market leaders across the Atlantic will strengthen our ability to act as a preferred partner of brands and actors in the plastic packaging value chain.' The deal's closing is anticipated in the third quarter (Q3) of this year, pending customary conditions such as regulatory approval under German foreign direct investment laws, lender consent for a change of control at GreenDot, and Agilyx shareholder approval for the issuance of new shares. Additionally, Tor Svelland will resign from Agilyx's nomination committee, with Tom Lileng proposed as his successor. Last month, Agilyx signed a memorandum of understanding with DerGrunePunkt to enhance the procurement of waste polystyrene feedstock for advanced recycling. "Agilyx to purchase 44% stake in plastic recycling entity GreenDot Global" was originally created and published by Packaging Gateway, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Science
- Yahoo
How technology is transforming packaging waste recycling
Packaging waste is one of the fastest-growing environmental challenges worldwide. As consumption rises and e-commerce expands, so does the volume of packaging discarded daily. Effective packaging waste management technologies have become essential for reducing environmental harm, conserving resources, and supporting a circular economy. This article explores key innovations and approaches shaping the future of packaging waste management, helping readers understand how technology is transforming the way packaging waste is collected, processed, and reused. Innovative sorting and recycling systems One of the biggest hurdles in managing packaging waste is the complexity of materials involved. Packaging often combines paper, plastics, metals, and adhesives, making separation difficult. Advanced sorting technologies are critical in overcoming this challenge. Modern recycling centres increasingly employ automated sorting systems that use optical scanners, near-infrared (NIR) sensors, and artificial intelligence to identify and separate different types of packaging waste with remarkable accuracy. These technologies can distinguish between various plastics such as PET, HDPE, and polypropylene, and separate materials that were previously impossible to sort efficiently. Robotic arms equipped with machine learning algorithms further enhance sorting lines by recognising packaging shapes and materials, allowing for faster processing and higher purity of recycled materials. This not only improves recycling rates but also reduces contamination that can lower the quality of recycled products. Moreover, chemical recycling methods are gaining traction. Unlike traditional mechanical recycling, chemical recycling breaks down plastics to their molecular building blocks, enabling the production of new packaging materials with properties similar to virgin plastics. This technology can process mixed or contaminated packaging waste that is unsuitable for conventional recycling, broadening the range of waste that can be reclaimed. Biodegradable and compostable packaging solutions As awareness of the environmental impact of packaging waste grows, the development of biodegradable and compostable packaging has accelerated. These innovative materials are designed to break down naturally after use, reducing the burden on waste management systems. Biodegradable packaging is typically made from natural polymers such as starch, cellulose, or polylactic acid (PLA), which decompose under specific conditions. Compostable packaging goes a step further by breaking down completely into non-toxic substances in industrial composting facilities. While these materials offer promising alternatives to conventional plastics, their environmental benefits depend heavily on proper waste collection and disposal infrastructure. If biodegradable packaging ends up in landfill or littered environments, degradation may be slow or incomplete, negating intended advantages. Technologies supporting compostable packaging include smart labelling systems that inform consumers and waste handlers about the correct disposal routes. Digital markers and QR codes can indicate whether packaging is compostable, recyclable, or needs special treatment. This helps reduce contamination in recycling streams and ensures compostable waste reaches suitable facilities. The integration of biodegradable materials into packaging waste management systems highlights a growing trend towards designing packaging that fits seamlessly into circular waste processes, reducing landfill reliance. Waste-to-energy and circular economy integration Waste-to-energy (WTE) technologies offer a practical solution for managing packaging waste that cannot be recycled or composted. These systems convert waste materials into usable energy, such as electricity or heat, through processes like incineration, pyrolysis, and gasification. Modern WTE plants are designed to minimise harmful emissions and maximise energy recovery, providing a sustainable alternative to landfill disposal. By extracting value from residual packaging waste, these technologies reduce the volume of waste sent to landfill and support energy demands, especially in urban areas. At the same time, many companies and municipalities are embedding packaging waste management within broader circular economy frameworks. The circular economy aims to keep resources in use for as long as possible by designing products and packaging with reuse, repair, and recycling in mind. Digital tracking technologies, such as blockchain and IoT sensors, are being used to improve traceability and transparency throughout packaging supply chains. This ensures packaging waste is properly collected, sorted, and reintegrated into production cycles. Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) schemes are also playing a key role by requiring manufacturers to take financial or physical responsibility for the end-of-life management of their packaging. This incentivises the design of packaging that is easier to recycle and encourages investment in waste management technologies. Combining waste-to-energy with circular economy principles creates a multi-layered approach that reduces environmental impact, conserves raw materials, and supports sustainable packaging futures. Ultimately, future of packaging waste management lies in a combination of advanced sorting and recycling technologies, innovative biodegradable materials, and integrated waste-to-energy systems within circular economy frameworks. Together, these developments promise to make packaging waste less of a burden on the environment, turning a critical challenge into an opportunity for sustainable innovation. "How technology is transforming packaging waste recycling" was originally created and published by Packaging Gateway, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. 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Forbes
5 days ago
- Business
- Forbes
Why Isn't Sustainable Packaging Mainstream Yet?
AI, policy gaps, and the price of plastic — what's really slowing the shift Claire Hae-Min Gusko, Co-founder and CEO of Despite record-breaking climate pledges and the sustainable packaging market expected to maintain robust growth through 2030 and beyond, the world is still wrapped in plastic. Sustainable packaging is gaining traction — its momentum is driven by a blend of regulatory push, shifts in consumer values, brand commitments, and innovation in material science. The packaging industry's green transition is seen as critical not only for brands' market competitiveness but for fulfilling wider sustainability and circular economy goals. But despite considerable progress made towards greener packaging, it's still a far cry from mainstream. Current estimates suggest that between 15% and 20% of global packaging may be classified as sustainable. However, this figure encompasses packaging that is recyclable, reusable, compostable, or made from recycled or bio-based materials. Globally, only about 14% of plastic packaging is collected for recycling, and around 46% still ends up in landfill. This means that there is an enormous amount of greenwashing around packaging classified as recyclable. Claire Hae-Min Gusko, co-founder and CEO of AI-powered packaging startup is harnessing the power of AI to speed up the transition to sustainable packaging. Her startup, based in Germany, uses artificial intelligence and biomaterials to prototype packaging that meets performance, price, and sustainability goals in one go. But she's quick to point out that tech alone won't solve the system-wide friction slowing adoption. 'We're not missing innovation — we're missing infrastructure, regulation, and market alignment,' Gusko explains. like Christian Schiller (CEO of Cirplus) and Adrian Friederich (Principal at FoodLabs), Gusko's frustration is echoed by sustainable packaging sector experts who are sounding the alarm on misaligned incentives that keep fossil-based packaging in its leading position: 'We have the tools,' says Adrian Friederich, Principal at FoodLabs. 'But without system-wide coordination, they never connect to real-world outcomes.' The global sustainable packaging market is forecast to reach $240–$423 billion by 2034, growing at estimated 7–7.7% CAGR. Europe leads adoption due to policy drivers like the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), while Asia-Pacific is the fastest-growing market for sustainable packaging. By 2025, 40% of companies are expected to adopt innovative packaging — yet real systems change still lags. This photo taken on June 9, 2020 shows municipal workers transferring waste from a canal into a ... More garbage truck in Bangkok. - Clogged canals and landfills, polluted rivers and seas, environmentalists warn Thailand's plastic waste has surged in step with home food deliveries during the coronavirus, snuffing out efforts to reduce dependency on single-use plastics. (Photo by Lillian SUWANRUMPHA / AFP) / TO GO WITH Thailand-health-virus-environment, FOCUS by Sophie DEVILLER and Pitcha DANGPRASITH (Photo by LILLIAN SUWANRUMPHA/AFP via Getty Images) At Gusko's team is building a platform that uses AI to predict product-market fit for sustainable packaging before prototyping — asking: will it be affordable, scalable, manufacturable, and regulation-proof? 'We didn't set out to build an AI company,' she says. 'We just needed a way to compete on speed and relevance.' Their first commercial launch debuted earlier this year at the World Travel Catering Expo, backed by over €10.5M in funding from top-tier European climate investors. 'The biggest systemic barrier is the artificially low price of virgin plastic,' says Christian Schiller, CEO of Cirplus, calling out the outrageous reality of fossil fuel subsidies that are significantly hampering the transition to sustainable alternatives. Despite increasing regulation and consumer awareness, plastic remains cheap, effective, and ubiquitous. 'Cost is still the elephant in the room,' adds Friederich. 'Even in climate-aware industries, price often trumps sustainability. Until we see meaningful financial incentives or penalties, sustainable packaging won't scale.' Schiller calls for stronger price corrections: 'We need plastic taxes, subsidy reform, and mandatory recycled content quotas. Right now, business-as-usual is simply cheaper — and that's what's keeping the industry stuck.' The next five years will be pivotal for the packaging industry. Global regulatory pressure is increasing, supply chains are shifting, and sustainable alternatives are finally approaching industrial scale — yet adoption is still starkly uneven and driven by regional government policy. A large percentage of consumers, over 40% according to recent surveys, say they are willing to pay more for products with sustainable packaging. Brand loyalty and purchase decisions are also increasingly linked to sustainable packaging practices. Currently, single-use plastic packaging accounts for around 40–50% of all global plastic production. 'We're at a turning point,' says Friederich, 'cities are piloting reuse models. Seaweed, fiber, and refillable formats are scaling. And regulation is finally catching up — particularly in Europe.' Still, success depends on largely on execution and enforcement of government policy. The EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) could drive meaningful reform — or risk falling short if enforcement is weak. 'With the PPWR leaving much room for revision, I don't expect targets to be met unless backed by strong political will,' says Schiller. 'Meanwhile, countries like China are building large-scale recycling infrastructure at speed. The EU may soon have to choose between importing recyclate — or lowering its own quotas.' For startups like this landscape presents both challenge and opportunity. 'You have to live in two timelines,' says Gusko. 'One where you're building for a future that's a decade away — and another where you need to prove value today just to survive. That balancing act is what defines our path forward.'
National Post
6 days ago
- Business
- National Post
ProAmpac Releases 2025 Sustainability Impact Report: A Decade of Flexibility. A Future of Possibilities
Article content CINCINNATI — ProAmpac, a global leader in flexible packaging and material science, announces the release of its 2025 Sustainability Impact Report. This year's theme, A Decade of Flexibility. A Future of Possibilities. celebrates the company's decade-long journey of sustainable innovation and sets the foundation for its forward-looking climate and packaging goals. Article content 'As we celebrate ten years of growth and innovation, we remain focused on what lies ahead: accelerating circular packaging, lowering our carbon footprint, and creating shared value for our employees, customers, communities, and partners. Our journey is far from over, but with every step, our purpose becomes clearer, and our momentum stronger,' said Greg Tucker, founder, vice-chairman, and chief executive officer of ProAmpac. Article content Key highlights from the 2025 Impact Report include: Article content Expanded Environmental Reporting: Environmental data has been updated to reflect historical usages from sites acquired in 2024. Net Zero Commitment: Formal pledge to the Science Based Target initiative (SBTi) under the Net Zero Standard. Progression of scope 3 quantification and scope 1 & 2 third-party verification. Offering a sustainable attribute for 100% of our product portfolio: Continuing to advance its leadership in sustainable packaging through our ProActive Sustainability® platform. Scaling Fiberization of Packaging®: Advancing fiber-based alternatives for non-recyclable packaging to accelerate circularity. Enhanced Safety & Community Engagement: Over 4,600 risk assessments completed in 2024; deepened community impact through global volunteer initiatives. Employee Support Through PEAF: Over $1.75 million in assistance provided to employees and families since 2017. Article content To view the full 2025 Sustainability Impact Report and learn more about ProAmpac's initiatives, contact Sustaibability@ or visit Article content About ProAmpac Article content ProAmpac is a leading global flexible packaging company with a comprehensive product offering. We provide creative packaging solutions, industry-leading customer service and award-winning innovation to a diverse global marketplace. ProAmpac's approach to sustainability – ProActive Sustainability — provides innovative sustainable flexible packaging products to help our customers achieve their sustainability goals. We are guided in our work by five core values that are the basis for our success: Integrity, Intensity, Innovation, Involvement, and Impact. Cincinnati-based ProAmpac is owned by Pritzker Private Capital along with management and co-investors. For more information, visit or contact Media@ Article content Article content Article content Article content Article content Contacts Article content Media Contact: Article content Whitney Miles Article content Article content Article content
