Carlsberg initiates up-cycling programme

Carlsberg and a number of global suppliers are collaborating to develop next-generation packaging products made from upgraded recycled materials. This initiative, called up-cycling also aims to reduce waste whilst producing better packaging.

The joint project, Carlsberg Circular Community, is part of the Carlsberg Group’s work on Sustainable Packaging. It includes founding companies, Rexam (cans), Arkema (glass bottle coatings) O-I (glass packaging), RKW (shrink wrap), MeadWestvaco – MWV (paperboard multipacks), and Petainer (PET kegs for draught beer).

With this programme, new products will undergo an assessment for up-cycling potential using a Cradle-to-Cradle? analysis (created by created by Professor Michael Braungart and EPEA Internationale Umweltforschung GmbH), which will reveal if the products contain any chemicals or additives that would reduce the value and quality of the materials. The targets are to include 15 partners and to have a minimum of three products Cradle-to-Cradle? certified by 2016.