SIG introduces “ReNew Pallets” made from recycled carton packaging waste in Thailand
SIG has taken a step towards reducing waste by successfully developing pallets for use in industrial transportation made from pre-consumer aseptic carton packaging waste mixed with virgin plastics. This is a pilot program led by SIG’s packaging plant in Rayong, Thailand, in collaboration with Advanced Mat, an engineering materials researcher. SIG has started using the pallets as part of its warehousing operations in Thailand.
The new pallets are partly made from separated polymer and aluminum (PolyAl) from recycled carton packaging waste at SIG’s production plant in Thailand, replacing up to 30% of virgin plastic with recycled content. Molding is used to form the molten PolyAl into pallets designed to meet load-bearing specifications, with features such as interlocking edges and forklift slots. Each pallet weighs only 22 kg, while holding a static load of over 8,500 kg and dynamic load of 1,350kg.
Each ReNew Pallet weighs only 22 kg, while holding a static load of over 8,500 kg and dynamic load of 1,350kg.
Miguel Gamito, Head of Operations and Supply Chain Management at SIG in Rayong: “This project is one of several SIG initiatives aimed at reducing our carbon footprint and enhancing our role in the circular economy. Unlike regular pallets made only from virgin materials, our ReNew Pallets include a mix of recycled packaging waste, which is then used to make these durable non-toxic, and recyclable pallets, offering a more sustainable option for the logistics industry.”
Vatcharapong Ungsrisawasdi, Head of Market Thailand, Laos, Burma, and Cambodia at SIG: “With the successful testing of ReNew Pallets at our Rayong production plant, we aim to expand their use in the SIG network. They are more durable than the HDPE plastic pallets that are commonly used for storing and transporting of goods. We target to eventually replace all our HDPE pallets and deliver our carton sleeves to our customers using these ReNew Pallets. By expanding this project, SIG is actively contributing to the recycling efforts and reintroducing recyclable materials into the cycle. This is aligned with SIG’s commitment to lead the way towards a fully circular packaging system.”
Vitsarut Janpaen, CEO at Advanced Mat: “As a materials specialist, Advanced Mat has been instrumental in successfully developing and producing these commercially viable ReNew Pallets. We are committed to using our expertise to enable the wider use of PolyAl. This partnership with SIG is an important step in our commitment to innovation and sustainability. By integrating waste into the circular economy, we are increasing our positive impact on the environment.”
In the pilot phase of the project, the ReNew Pallets will be used in SIG’s warehouse in Rayong. Following its successful implementation, future plans include the use of PolyAl obtained from recycled post-consumer beverage cartons. Up to 3,400 beverage cartons are used to make a single ReNew Pallet, which can divert waste from landfills and reduce carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 144.68kg[1].
[1] Calculated using the GHG emission reduction programme under the Thailand Voluntary Emission Reduction (T-VER) Program developed by Thailand Greenhouse Gas Management Organization (TGO).
About SIG
SIG is a leading solutions provider of packaging for better – better for our customers, for consumers, and for the world. With our unique portfolio of aseptic carton, bag-in-box, and spouted pouch, we work in partnership with our customers to bring food and beverage products to consumers around the world in a safe, sustainable, and affordable way. Our technology and outstanding innovation capabilities enable us to provide our customers with versatile packaging systems and solutions for innovative products and smart operations, all to address the ever-changing needs of consumers. Sustainability is integral to our business and guides us on our journey to create packaging for better – packaging that gives more to people and the planet than it takes out.
Founded in 1853, SIG is headquartered in Neuhausen, Switzerland, and is listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange. The skills and experience of our approximately 9,000 employees worldwide enable us to respond quickly and effectively to the needs of our customers in over 100 countries. In 2023, SIG produced 53 billion packs and generated €3.2 billion in revenue. SIG also has an AA ESG rating by MSCI, a 13.9 (low risk) score by Sustainalytics, Platinum CSR rating by EcoVadis, and is included in the FTSE4Good Index. For more information, visit our website.
For insights into trends that drive the food and beverage industry, visit the SIG blog.
Your contact for media inquiries:
PRecious Communications for SIG
Tel: +65 6303 0567
Email: sig@preciouscomms.com
Busakorn Srisongkhroh busakorn@preciouscomms.com Mobile: 081-9110931
Srunthus Tangkunanont srunthus@preciouscomms.com Mobile: 081-2311010
Sirada Rongbundit sirada@preciouscomms.com Mobile: 080-5888886
