Engineers urged toward recycled materials
A plastics reprocessor is urging product designers to 'challenge the norms' and think along more 'circular' lines to encourage greater uptake of recycled polymers in new goods.
Keith Freegard, director of Axion Polymers, said: "Engaging with product specifiers and designers to make them recognise the clear environmental, economic and sustainable benefits of using recycled plastics is essential if we are to increase the uptake of recycled content in new items.
"This is vital if we are to realise the wider aims of sustainable manufacturing and the circular economy."
Designers have an important role to play in making their clients aware of the potential benefits and savings that could result from specifying and inclusion of closed-loop recyclates at an early stage in the product development process.
Axion has displayed success applying this philosophy with its Axpoly r-PP51 1047, made from 80% recovered plastic from end-of-life vehicles and 20% packaging waste, which it has been able to use to make new car components. Also, its Axpoly r-PS01 3067 Toy Grade polymer is derived from waste fridge plastic.
"Essentially, designers must challenge the client brief and think about circular materials flow using proven recycled polymers that can deliver multiple benefits," Freegard continued.
"There's enough good quality recycled material out there now for organisations to demonstrate their commitment to sustainability."
