UPM Raflatac expands RafCycle

UPM Raflatac collects the paper and PET liner waste from its RafCycle partners and recycles it into new materials, 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 UPM Raflatac's approach to labeling a smarter future beyond fossils.

Collaboration across the value chain is important to making the RafCycle program successful in delivering more sustainable packaging solutions. The North American launch of the program includes value added partners across the value chain, from UPM Raflatac to printers/converters, brands and recyclers.

‘Our RafCycle program proudly boasts more than 120 partners worldwide, and we are honored to bring this solution to sustainability-minded brands in North America who are looking to join us in labeling a smarter future by reducing their label waste,’ says Juha Virmavirta, director, RafCycle Solutions, UPM Raflatac. ‘We invite any brands looking to achieve their sustainable packaging and zero waste targets to contact us to learn more about how our RafCycle solution can benefit them.’

UPM Raflatac also announces that it has partnered with Sustana and Kal-Polymers to recycle the paper and PET label liner waste from its RafCycle partners.

‘Sustana is pleased to support the innovative RafCycle program and to be part of the circular economy, by renewing fiber that is often landfilled, and turning it into new paper and tissue products,’ says Jay Hunsberger, vice president, pulp sales and marketing, Sustana.

‘Our recycled materials enhance profits, reduce costs, maintain quality and support sustainability,’ says Gobi Saha, president, Kal-Polymers. ‘We have joined UPM Raflatac's RafCycle program to help give label liner waste a new life.’

‘By signing on as a RafCycle partner, we will help our customers and brand owners build their legacy as a responsible business and reduce their environmental footprint,’ adds Tyler Matusevich, sustainability manager, Americas, UPM Raflatac. ‘Our RafCycle waste management concept shows how we can work together to think and act circular. Special thanks to Fort Dearborn Company, Sustana and Kal-Polymers for taking this important step in creating a more circular economy.’