Groupe RCM Inc., Yamachiche, Québec, has introduced what it has termed a new way to optimize the recycling of cartons at its facility. The launch, which took three years to develop and represents a $3.5 million investment, was spearheaded by the packaging firm Tetra Pak, with Canadian headquarters in Hill, Ontario.
Groupe RCM, founded in 1981, is a nonprofit corporation whose mission is to create jobs for people with physical or cognitive limitations.
Tetra Pak and its corporate partners, A. Lassonde Inc. of Rougemont, Québec, and Natrel of St. Laurent, Québec, along with Québec government corporation Recyc-Québec, collectively provided Groupe RCM with $1 million in seed capital for the project.
The companies claim the new recycling process, which they describe as the first of its kind in the world, breaks down carton, plastic bag and film waste into a thermoplastic resin than can be used in industrial and commercial manufacturing.
The facility will accept all gable top and aseptic cartons as well as plastic shopping bags and cellophane film from sorting centers in the Québec market. “A thermokinetic process uses high-speed knives to homogenize disparate waste materials into plastic granules that can later be used for making a wide variety of plastic products” such as flower pots, railway ties, guard rail posts, pallets and plastic lumber, according to a press release issued by Tetra Pak. “The process is waste-free, converting all elements, including straws, caps and other plastic attachments, into plastic granules,” the company adds.
“We’re proud of the innovation and collaboration that took place among all of the partners we worked with to make this project a reality,” says Yvon Picotte, president, Groupe RCM. “It’s a smart and efficient way to transform post-consumer paper and plastic containers into useful, everyday goods.”
Jean Gattuso, COO of Lassonde Industries Inc. and president and CEO of A. Lassonde Inc., says, “The launch of this locally developed recycling line is a testament to the vision, creativity and know-how of all the partners. This project aligns perfectly with our mission to produce and market food products that by their quality and variety contribute to the enjoyment and wellness of consumers.”
Latest from Recycling Today
- Coperion, Herbold bringing plastic recycling technologies to K Show
- Schupan and Sons appoints VP of Human Resources
- Vanden launches catalogue for recycled PET resins, flake
- PCA: Corrugated products customers ‘cautious’ amid economic uncertainty
- McKinsey sees recycling as an aluminum supply necessity
- RegenX delays annual report, says it is nearing facility restart
- WM Kelley moves into new offices
- US Senate backs reduced cuts to EPA
