RePlast

Purpose and goal

The aim has been development towards CE through increased knowledge of waste flows and production needs. By the production of a PM and a workshop as well as discussions on each of Eskilstuna´s plastic manufacturers, the goal to disseminate knowledge about bioplastics and recycling has been met. At the planned inventory of plastic waste streams a few flows that were of interest to industry was identified. Trials with CE in practice was made with two products, sledges and plates, with after extended quality tests could be put to market with better economy and under the principals of CE.

Expected results and effects

The inventory of waste flows and discussion with plastics manufacturers are expected to lead to development of utilization of some plastics in production, with positive effects on the economy both for community and company. Similarly, a quality assurance process of the re-produced plates is expected to enable the development of a business model according to CE-principle rendering better resource efficiency and better economy. New contact areas and the rewarding exchange between waste management and the industry and increased knowledge are expected to lead to further development.

Planned approach and implementation

All plastics manufacturers in Eskilstuna were involved in the work by discussing sustainable plastics, CE and their own potential to contribute to more sustainable plastics systems while providing better economies through adjustments in the supply of raw materials. A couple of them have participated in practical tests at the retrieval of waste materials for new production. The inventory of plastic flows and the dissemination of knowledge led to a mutual understanding of the possibilities and obstacles to using bioplastics and recycling and also of possible ways forward.