Reuse of packaging

The packaging designer must consider the possibility of reuse in the elaboration of the product.

Because plastic packaging is light and easy to wash, it can be easily reconditioned and reused. This method of packaging treatment is a means to prolong its life, so that it will become waste at a later time.

Packaging designed for reuse is collected and regrouped in classified establishments, it is then emptied, cleaned and rinsed. The packaging renovated for reuse can serve as shuttle packaging (relations supplier / customer) or be used in commercial transactions as used packaging. Although attention is given to the regulations of transportation of hazardous materials, according to which after renovation or reconditioning, the packaging must be submitted to different conformity labelling. The reuse of packaging for food products is definitely excluded for packaging for which one does not know the previous use and which has not come from the food cycle.

Material recovery (recycling)

This option is favoured because it means substantial improvements for our environment. Using recycled materials in packaging must not put the intrinsic quality of the packaging and its contents at risk. Using recycled materials for packaging that comes in contact with food products is prohibited.

Energy recovery

The high calorific value of plastics make these products very useful in terms of energy recovery. They can be used either as substitute combustibles in cement plants, or for urban complexes (hospitals, public buildings…).

This solution enables drums that contain contaminating materials to be destroyed, after the material is ground, it is injected in an oven where it is burnt with a issuance of CO2 and water.

Hazardous industrial waste - Destruction of the packaging

Packaging that has contained toxic products and pollutants or that is not completely emptied, that has lost its identification and is of unknown origin, is destroyed in authorised centres.