Vianode Signs USD Multi-Billion Long-Term Supply Agreement For EV Battery-Grade Anode Graphite With GM
Vianode, an advanced battery materials company, has been selected as a strategic supplier of high-performance anode graphite solutions to General Motors (NYSE: GM). The agreement covers development of large-scale manufacturing capacity and supply of synthetic anode graphite towards 2033.
The master supply agreement has a USD multi-billion value for Vianode and marks an important step forward in strengthening the North American battery and EV supply chain.
The high-performance anode graphite will be shipped from Vianode’s IRA compliant large-scale plant in North America with production starting in 2027. The agreement, that includes a minimum off-take commitment, follows a multi-year qualification process, demonstrating that the anode graphite produced at Vianode’s pilot plant in Norway meets stringent performance and validation requirements.
Under the supply agreement, the material will be used by Ultium Cells LLC – GM’s battery cell manufacturing joint venture with LG Energy Solution for next-generation EV batteries and drive units. Under the agreement, deliveries may be extended to include other joint ventures.
“Vianode’s advanced battery materials enable cost-efficient batteries and EVs with better performances and a fraction of the carbon emissions of conventional technologies. Our recent creation of Vianode North America and this agreement to supply GM’s North American EV business, are key building blocks for a local, resilient supply chain for critical battery materials outside of Asia. We are proud of and honored that GM has chosen us as a strategic partner. This underlines Vianode’s capability and the way in which we will contribute to shaping the North American battery value chain.” says Burkhard Straube, CEO of Vianode.
“This agreement with Vianode for the development of artificial graphite is another great example of GM’s strategic effort to build a sustainable battery supply chain in North America,” said Jeff Morrison, senior vice president of Global Purchasing and Supply Chain at General Motors. “This project will help advance our battery technology and drive greater value to our customers.”
Anode graphite is the largest component of a lithium-ion battery by weight and is a vital material for the energy transition. Vianode produces synthetic anode graphite with a 90% lower CO2 footprint than conventional production methods. Synthetic graphite is manufactured in high-temperature production processes and differs from natural graphite typically mined from carbon-rich rock formations.
Vianode is preparing to develop large-scale sustainable anode graphite production in North America and Europe through a phased multi-billion USD investment program. The company aims to supply advanced materials to 3 million EVs per year by 2030 as a leading provider of advanced anode graphite solutions.
“Vianode empowers battery and EV manufacturers to reduce their carbon footprint. We introduced a new industry standard with a verified climate impact of 1.9 kg CO2 equivalents per kilogram of graphite, and target to nearly halve this by 2030. We look forward to collaborating with GM to further develop high-performance products that enable EVs with faster charging, longer range and extended lifespan,” says Dr. Stefan Bergold, the CCO of Vianode.
Vianode has produced anode graphite solutions at its industrial pilot in Kristiansand, Norway since 2021. Vianode’s Technology Center opened in the same city in 2022, and the first full-scale production plant at Herøya, Norway started production in the second half of 2024.
Mid of October 2024 Alpha Ecoplast Pvt. Ltd., a member of Alpha Group, commissioned a Starlinger recoSTAR PET 215 HC iV+ PET bottle-to-bottle recycling system in their new facility near the city of Kosamba, Gujarat State.
The recoSTAR PET 215 HC iV+ features Starlinger’s biggest single extruder size, reaching an output of up to 2,700 kg of bottle-grade pellets per hour. The PET bottle-to-bottle recycling system is equipped with a pre-drying unit, high-vacuum degassing, a continuous filtration system, and an underwater pelletizer. The viscoSTAR SSP reactor installed at the end of the recycling process further increases the viscosity and level of decontamination of the produced pellets. The entire recycling process is based on the FIFO principle, ensuring uniform treatment of every single flake at the front end and each pellet at the back end for outstanding food-contact decontamination. Like all Starlinger recycling systems, the recoSTAR PET 215 HC iV+ is characterized by low energy consumption, excellent production efficiency and user-friendliness.
The rPET pellets produced on Starlinger’s recoSTAR PET recycling lines have been approved for food-contact applications by national and international authorities such as the FDA (USA) and EFSA (EU), as well as by important brand owners in the food and beverage sector. Alpha Ecoplast recycles domestically collected post-consumer PET bottles and produces bottle-grade rPET pellets as well as food-grade suitable rPET flakes which it supplies to the Indian and international markets. To meet the rapidly growing demand on the market, Alpha Ecoplast already placed an order for a second Starlinger PET bottle-to-bottle recycling system of the same size.
Allrounder Hidrive: Hybrid Drive System Combines Benefits Of Electrics And Hydraulics
Expansion: Hybrid Allrounder with new machine technology in three sizes
Hybrid alternative: Energy saving, efficient, reduced costs and carbon footprint
Performance variants: Comfort, Premium and Ultimate – a suitable solution for all requirements
The injection moulding market is in need of modular, adaptable drive systems that can harness the benefits of both electric and hydraulic technology – namely speed and precision paired with power and dynamics. The new, finely graduated hybrid machine technology from Arburg is comparable to all-electric machines in terms of both dry cycle times and injection speeds. This makes the new Allrounder Hidrive (H) an energy-saving alternative to hydraulic machines and an economical alternative to electric machines, unlike anything previously available on the market.
The hybrid Allrounder Hidrive machines are currently available in sizes 470, 520 and 570, and combine an energy-efficient and precise electric clamping unit with a powerful and dynamic hydraulic injection unit.
Efficient and customisable: The new hybrid Allrounder H is available in sizes 470, 520 and 570, each in the “Comfort”, “Premium” and “Ultimate” performance variants.
Hybrid technology a hit with injection moulding companies
The new, finely graduated hybrid machine technology is comparable to all-electric machines in terms of both dry cycle times and injection speeds. The new hybrid machines also boast an optimised energy footprint and reduced cycle times, making them a perfect fit for the times: they save energy, conserve resources and at the same time are efficient in production, user friendly and reliable. In a survey of visitors to the Arburg Anniversary Days 2023, 96 and 95 per cent of respondents rated the new hybrid Allrounder 470 H milestone machine as a suitable replacement for hydraulic machines and electric machines respectively. The new machine technology is suitable for technical injection moulding as well as for demanding applications, for example in the automotive and packaging industries.
Precise electric drive technology
With subsidiary AMKmotion joining the Arburg family, the development and production of the entire powertrain can now be handled in-house. This not only applies to Allrounder injection moulding machines, including the inverter and motor and therefore the centrepiece of the closing system, but also to mould technology, for example.
The planetary roller screw drive in combination with liquid-cooled motors is ideally suited to high-end injection moulding tasks. Using this electric direct drive, which is integrated into the hybrid machines in the Premium and Ultimate performance variants, for example, all positions can be started up extremely quickly and precisely while achieving load-resistant power transmission and a high power density over a long service life – even when the machine is running at full load. Automatic clamping force regulation, which generates a consistent locking force and thus automatically compensates for the thermal expansion of the mould, is available as an option.
Dynamic hydraulic injection unit
Homogeneous material preparation and precise injection are additional prerequisites for high-quality part production. The hydraulic drives, which have been tried and tested in injection moulding for decades, are sophisticated, robust, low maintenance and durable. They are particularly well suited to high levels of material throughput and generate high forces that can be maintained during any length of holding pressure phase. Depending on the performance variant, the hybrid Allrounders in the Hidrve series combine regulated injection, dynamic hydraulic accumulator technology and an energy-saving servo-electric dosage drive to achieve a high plasticising flow rate.
Three performance variants for optimal adaptation
The hybrid Allrounder Hidrive is available in the “Comfort”, “Premium” and “Ultimate” performance variants and can be customised precisely to the respective requirements. This new generation of machines incorporates many technical innovations that are only available from Arburg. These include a new oil management concept, flow rate splitting and extended use of the Arburg servo hydraulic system.
The “Comfort” performance variant is intended for technical, thick-walled or relatively simple moulded parts that are typically manufactured in cycle times of 10 to 45 seconds.
The “Premium” performance variant is further optimised in terms of production efficiency, achieving a dry cycle time of 1.2 seconds. This machine can be used for a variety of demanding applications, such as manufacturing precision components for the automotive and electronics industries. Its standard equipment includes a planetary roller screw drive and the Arburg electro-mechanical dosage (AED) function for a longer dosage time. In addition, the machine features Arburg’s new flow rate splitting for simultaneous, independent movements of two hydraulic secondary axes.
For its part, the “Ultimate” performance variant is specifically designed for demanding, high-speed processes, such as thin-walled applications in the packaging technology industry. The dry cycle times are significantly shorter than that of the Premium performance variant. The standard equipment for Ultimate machines also includes AED as well as hydraulic accumulator technology and the Gestica control system with the aXw Control ScrewPilot function, which compensates for disruptions in the filling process and stabilises mould filling. All together, this provides for a level of injection precision equivalent to that of an electric injection unit. Dosage across cycles is also possible (optional feature).
Reduced energy requirement thanks to the Arburg servo hydraulic system
All three performance variants are equipped with the Arburg servo hydraulic system (ASH). With this technology, the drive system adjusts continuously to the actual power requirement thanks to a speed-controlled, water-cooled servo motor. One major advantage of this is that when the machine is at a standstill, the pump drive also stops, meaning no more idling losses. This ensures energy-efficient, low-emission operation and yields up to 50 percent energy savings, particularly for processes with long cooling times. Depending on the specific application, the Allrounder 470 H “” can save up to 12,000 kg of CO2 per year. At the same time, the machine’s cooling requirements and noise level are also significantly reduced.
High injection speeds
The “Premium” and “Ultimate” performance variants of the hybrid Allrounders meet the highest requirements in terms of dynamics and process capability thanks to its hydraulic accumulator technology. This works with a process-optimised accumulator volume and an energy-saving charging circuit. All axes of motion can be independently controlled and driven by means of separate control valves. The hydraulic accumulator ensures a consistent pressure level. The result: quick, dynamic simultaneous movements and more process setting options, such as injection during mould closing or embossing.
Easy to operate and maintain
User-friendliness and reliability are also important criteria for the new machine in order to save time and money on service and maintenance.
Thanks to a new oil management concept, the new Allrounder 470 H requires around 35 per cent less oil. The required cooling water capacity can be reduced by up to 70 per cent. The dry cycle time is also reduced by about one third.
Predictive maintenance is an important keyword here: for example, the machine automatically reports when the oil filter is due to be changed soon. Oil filters and connections are more accessible and the mounting locations for the central lubrication system, pneumatic system and interfaces have also been optimised.
Efficient and resource-saving: Allrounder 470 H with hybrid machine technology
Digitalisation: host computer system, customer portal and remote service
Plastimagen from 11 to 14 March 2025 in Mexico City is an important meeting place for players in the Mexican plastics industry. At stand 730 in hall D, Arburg will be presenting two innovative injection moulding machines: an electric Allrounder 720 E Golden Electric will be producing an exemplary component for the mobility sector, while an Allrounder 470 H will be demonstrating the benefits of hybrid machine technology in the production of a drinking cup. The Arburg experts will also be providing advice on all aspects of digitalisation and presenting novelties, e. g. regarding the ALS host computer system, the arburgXworld customer portal and the ARS remote service.
Allrounder 470H 186073 Efficient and customisable: The hybrid Allrounder H is available in sizes 470, 520 and 570, each in the “Comfort”, “Premium” and “Ultimate” performance variants.
“The plastics market in Mexico is currently at a crucial point. Cost efficiency, optimised use of resources, increased production rates and flexibility are particularly in demand,” Mario Rodriguez, Managing Director of Arburg Mexico, is convinced. “We are therefore presenting two exhibits whose advanced machine technologies lead to considerable savings and greater sustainability in the short and long term. We are also emphasising our position as a technology leader and pioneer of digital transformation and giving our customers the opportunity to experience first-hand that ‘more than a machine’ and ‘maximum space savings’ are more than just concepts, but tangible realities that drive innovation and efficient, future-proof plastic parts production.”
The machine highlight at the trade fair stand is the new Allrounder 720 E Golden Electric. Sim in design and price – this is how its main advantages can be summarised. The high-quality machine technology includes a toggle clamping unit and direct drives from subsidiary AMKmotion. The electric injection moulding machine has a clamping force of 2,800 kN and is only 1,848 millimetres wide. It was designed in response to challenges such as increasing price pressure combined with rising labour, energy and material costs, ever shorter product life cycles and faster product changeovers. At Plastimagen 2025, a practical application for the mobility sector will be shown, which has been realised with the companies Kostal and Moya Mold Makers. Using the example of the production of indicator levers made from PA6-GF50, visitors to the trade fair will be able to see for themselves the high-performance, easily accessible machine, which can also be used flexibly in other industries.
Hybrid: Allrounder 470 H “Premium”
The hybrid all-rounders in the Hidrive series combine an electric, energy-efficient and precise clamping unit with a hydraulic, powerful and dynamic injection unit. Above all, they impress with reduced acquisition and operating costs, an optimised energy balance and reduced cycle times. The adaptable machines can be used in numerous industries, for example to produce household products or technical moulded parts. The exhibit, a hybrid Allrounder 470 H “Premium” with a clamping force of 1,000 kN, produces PP cups in Mexico using a 2-cavity mould as an example. A Multilift Select 8 linear robotic system removes the moulded parts and stacks them on a conveyor belt. The standard equipment of the “Premium” performance variant includes the “Arburg electromechanical dosing” (AED) function for longer dosing and the hydraulic accumulator technology with “Arburg servo hydraulics” (ASH).
ALLROUNDER 720 E GOLDEN ELECTRIC Thanks to its new design and standardised equipment, the 720 E Golden Electric all-rounder is particularly slim in terms of footprint and price.
“More than a machine” – comprehensive support
“As a reliable business partner, we provide our customers with comprehensive support. When you invest in Arburg, in addition to machine technology, you also receive automation, robotic systems, digital services and comprehensive after-sales support that is tailored to the individual needs of our customers,” emphasises Mario Rodriguez. “This holistic approach is essential to mastering the complexity of the market and achieving sustainable growth.”
Visitors can gain an overview of the comprehensive digital products and services at various stations on the exhibition stand. The Arburg experts will be demonstrating how the Arburg host computer system ALS, digital assistants and the features of the arburgXworld customer portal and the Arburg Remote Service ARS help to make plastics production smarter, more efficient and more sustainable.
Allrounder 720 E Golden Electric: Slim In Design And Price
Large: Electric Allrounder with 2,800 kN clamping force
Attractive: Low investment costs, short delivery times, high level of flexibility
Slimline: New design saves space and increases overall output
The Allrounder 720 E Golden Electric with a clamping force of 2,800 kN extends the product range of the electric series of the same name upwards. Its main advantages in a nutshell? A slim design with a price to match. The electric injection moulding machine launched on the market in 2024 is characterised by electrical precision and process stability as well as a small footprint and offers high component quality combined with low investment costs and short delivery times.
The extension of the electrical machine portfolio helps customers to meet current challenges such as increasing price pressure combined with rising costs for labour, energy and materials as well as shortening product life cycles and faster product changes. To enable attractive investment costs and a rapid return on investment (ROI), the company relies on standardised equipment without compromising on quality and performance. So the new “Golden” combines a high level of precision with a slimline design at a particularly attractive price/performance ratio.
Significantly smaller installation area
Arburg has optimised the design of the machine so that the new Allrounder 720 E Golden Electric, with a width of just 1,848 millimetres, has a significantly smaller installation area than other machines in its class. This has been achieved through features such as a new safety door with recessed handles. At the same time, the door opening has been widened to 1,400 millimetres, making the ejector area more accessible, for example.
The slim Allrounder fits into existing production grids and lines. Thanks to the new design, more machines can be set up in injection moulding production, resulting in an increased output per square metre. This is of particular interest when old machine technology needs to be replaced. However, even for new production facilities that are being planned, every achievable space saving is a valuable resource. Thanks to the slim design, more machines can be set up in injection moulding production, resulting in an increased output per square metre.
Reliable, stable machine technology
The Allrounder 720 E Golden Electric features high-quality machine technology to ensure stable and reliable plastic parts production. This includes a toggle-type clamping unit and direct drives from subsidiary AMKmotion. With an electric mould height adjustment system, mould installation heights of up to 800 millimetres are possible. The drive components are optimised for a clamping force of 2,800 kN. Proven, high-quality Arburg plasticising with the “aXw Control ScrewPilot” ensures reproducible injection and excellent moulded part quality.
Optimised mould venting with two-stage mould locking also plays a part in this. For convenient maintenance, the new electric Allrounder has the same control cabinet concept as the new hybrid machines. The lubrication unit and optional pneumatic system are easily accessible on the operating side. The parts chute in the machine base has been widened and is easily accessible.
Flexible in automation and application
The new electric machine is not limited to a specific product and is quickly available, which is particularly advantageous for short-term replacement purchases and capacity expansions. It is of interest to almost every industry and particularly suitable for technical injection moulding. Typical areas of application include dimensionally stable housings for electromobility, thick-walled closures for household goods, precision components for medical technology, and the construction and leisure industries.
The Allrounder 720 E Golden Electric is equipped with the Selogica ND control system as standard. If required, additional options and functions such as core pulls and heating and cooling circuits can be easily integrated and programmed. This means that a wide range of plastic parts can be produced flexibly, efficiently and reliably.
Furthermore, the new electric machine can be automated with linear Multilift robotic systems and six-axis robots from Arburg.
The company has appointed a new CEO, CFO and CIO to head its entire business across Europe.
Interzero, a Berlin-based environmental service provider specializing in waste management, closed-loop solutions and plastics recycling, says it has established a single, groupwide corporate leadership team for all of Europe consisting of a chief executive officer (CEO), chief financial officer (CFO) and chief information officer (CIO). Jan Kroker has been named CEO, Yi Guo will serve as CFO and Claudia Wegener will serve as CIO. The company says advisory board member Peter Vogel is acting as interim CFO until Guo takes up his role.
Interzero says Kroker, Guo and Wegener are committed to continue bolstering the company’s positioning in a competition-oriented European market and further expand its role as an international extended producer responsibility (EPR) service provider.
“The circular economy should be more than just a national issue,” says Interzero Chairman and Owner Axel Schweitzer. “We are creating a consistent global positioning for Interzero to step up the internationalization of our company, deepen cross-border, interdepartmental collaboration along our value chain and strengthen our position as a leading international EPR system provider. The new groupwide leadership team will focus on pursuing Interzero’s vision of ‘a world without waste’ both strategically and operationally so that we can continue to work with our customers and partners to drive the circular economy.”
Going forward, the company says it also will focus on implementing sustainable closed-loop solutions as well as saving more materials from incineration and conserving resources via its role as an experienced plastics recycler. The company adds that digital solutions are increasingly vital to success when it comes to organizing efficient closed-loop solutions and has tasked Wegener with incorporating more digitalization into its corporate governance.
New leadership team
Kroker took over as Interzero’s CEO this month and previously was responsible for the company’s plastics recycling business. The company says he has a background in the chemicals industry and held senior management roles at KCA Deutag and BASF before joining Interzero.
Guo joins Interzero from the Alba Group Asia. After working for DZ Bank and HSH Nordbank (now Hamburg Commercial Bank AG), he moved to the Alba Group in early 2016. Most recently, he served as CFO of the Alba Group Asia with responsibility for strategy, finance and legal and has been part of the Interzero Holding management team since 2023.
Until Guo joins the management team, Interzero says Vogel will take responsibility for the group’s finances as interim CFO. Guo spent more than 10 years working for various auditing firms before moving to the Alba Group’srecycling business in 2010, where he served as CFO from 2017-2022. Vogel has been a member of Interzero’s advisory board since February 2023.
Wegener brings more than 10 years of expertise in IT and digital transformation processes, according to Interzero. She gained experience at companies including Deutsche Telekom before setting up and managing the Lizenzero online shop for packaging licensing from 2019 onward.
Together with machine manufacturer ENGEL, mould maker Brink, label maker iPB Printing and joint venture partner INTOPACK, ALPLA is realising thin-walled cups made from recycled PET material for dairy products for the first time. The innovative solution meets all the requirements of the PPWR and is set to go into series production from the 4th quarter of 2025.
Dairy products such as yogurt, cheese spreads, pudding, cream and curd cheese are to be packaged in a more environmentally friendly way in the EU in the future. The PPWR (Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation) sets the direction. From 2030, plastic food packaging must contain a minimum percentage of recycled material – otherwise penalties may be imposed. The problem: cups for dairy products are made of PP (polypropylene) or PS (polystyrene) – and for both there is no approved recycling material from the mechanical recycling process for contact with food. Small quantities are only available through chemical recycling, which is far more costly and energy-intensive. Too little for widespread use.
ALPLA has the solution, and it is based on the all-rounder PET (polyethylene terephthalate). Together with machine manufacturer ENGEL, mould maker Brink, label maker iPB Printing and joint venture partner INTOPACK, the injection moulding division ALPLAinject has succeeded in producing thin-walled PET plastic cups with recycled material for the first time. rePETec stands for the interplay of innovative technology, mould, process and material treatment. For the first time, the single-stage injection moulding process allows for fully recyclable packaging made of up to 100 per cent rPET. For example, the 30 percent recycled material content required by the PPWR for PET is easily possible.
Established material cycle for PET
‘With rePETec, we create stable packaging with thin walls made of rPET, can recycle it after use and access the existing and established PET recycling stream. None of this has been feasible so far. With this solution, manufacturers of dairy products meet all legal requirements and at the same time strengthen the regional circular economy, ’ explains Thomas Maibohm, Head of Sales and Product Management Thin-wall Packaging at ALPLA. Following the successful test phase, ALPLA and INTOPACK are planning to start series production from the 4th quarter of 2025 – initially with the two standard formats of 180 and 300 millilitres. Others are to follow successively. Depending on the customer’s requirements, the filling volume can be from 100 to 500 millilitres.
Thin and tight
0.32 millimetres thin walls and integrated in-mould labeling (IML) minimize weight and material consumption. The higher specific weight of rPET is more than compensated by significantly better barrier properties. This increases the shelf life compared to conventional PP cups. ‘This opens up new opportunities for dairy products and can prevent food waste,’ says Thomas Maibohm.
The high-quality rPET is contributed by system provider ALPLA from its own recycling plants in Europe – ALPLAinject meets ALPLArecycling.
‘Quality and availability are guaranteed in the long term,’ says Thomas Maibohm, emphasizing the benefits. After use, the PET yogurt pots can be included in the already established PET bottle cycle. The PP label is first removed from the packaging during mechanical recycling. ‘The cups enrich the ‘bottle-to-bottle’ cycle. In the future, a bottle can become a cup and then back into a bottle and so on. This saves resources, avoids waste and is financially unbeatable,’ Thomas Maibohm is convinced.
Avient Expands Production Of Nymax REC Recycled Nylon Formulations To Istanbul
Avient expands production of Nymax REC Recycled Nylon Formulations to Istanbul, Turkey. These formulations contain up to 100% recycled materials, such as nylon carpets, and can be used in applications such as automotive under-the-hood parts.
Avient Corporation, an innovator of materials solutions, today announced that production of its Nymax REC Recycled Nylon Formulations is expanding to Istanbul, Turkey. This will increase accessibility to these sustainability-supporting, REACH-compliant solutions for customers in Middle Eastern countries.
These PA6-based Nymax REC formulations contain between 20 and 100 percent recycled content from registered sources approved by the European Union regulation for Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH), such as recycled textiles. They offer comparable performance to virgin nylon grades, including high strength, durability, impact resistance, and weather resistance. These formulations can be combined with a wide range of reinforcements, modifiers, and fillers to enhance performance requirements and can be tailored to provide chemical resistance and flame retardancy.
“Expanding production of these grades to Istanbul, using locally sourced recycled content, means we can offer Turkish and Middle Eastern countries these REACH-compliant solutions while helping to reduce the environmental impact of transporting these materials,” said Matt Mitchell, Director, Global Marketing of Specialty Engineered Materials at Avient. “It shows our strengthened commitment to providing sustainable solutions and supports our customers in achieving their sustainability goals.”
By using recycled materials, these formulations can also offer lower Product Carbon Footprint (PCF) values than virgin nylon equivalents. As with all Avient products, certified PCF values are available.
These materials can be used in many industries and applications, including automotive, industrial, electrical, and electronics, offering a more sustainable alternative to virgin nylon without compromising performance. For more information, please visit avient.com.
If you are travelling and like to use plastic bottles, you don’t have to do without them. Drinks in PET bottles are available all over the world and can be disposed of in public collection containers or returned to retailers almost everywhere. In addition, many countries have their own deposit systems or are currently introducing them, such as Austria on 1 January 2025. Plastic is also fantastic: in Rome and Istanbul, you can even exchange used plastic bottles for bus and train tickets. Or for dog food. France, meanwhile, is focusing on entertainment.
They hardly weigh anything and don’t break: plastic bottles made of PET are the ideal travelling companions. Whether at home or abroad – plastic bottles are available worldwide, are easy to transport, easy to store and can also be disposed of locally. Returning them is not only a matter of sustainability, but also of creativity.
Plastic bins and deposit system
Most holiday destinations have containers where travelers can dispose of their used plastic bottles in an environmentally friendly way. In addition, many regions, such as Scandinavia, the Netherlands and Croatia, have a deposit system similar to that in Germany. Even in the distant South Sea paradise of Hawaii. There, a beverage deposit of 5 cents is charged for each PET bottle, which is returned to so-called Beverage Container Redemption Centres, i.e. regional collection points. Austria has been charging a deposit of 0.25 euros on disposable drinks containers since 1 January 2025. Other countries, such as Italy and Spain, do not yet have a deposit system, nor do Turkey and France.
Environmentally friendly and fun
But when it comes to disposing of plastic bottles, these countries are extremely creative. In French supermarkets, for example, there are machines called “B:Bot“. The elegantly designed machines, pronounced “Bibotte”, take plastic bottles and immediately shred them into sparkling, recyclable mini-shreds. The highlight of this process shows why “plastic is fantastic”: the entire process takes place behind a glass pane through which the spectacle can be observed, which is particularly fascinating for children. On top of this, there is a reward for the plastic flakes handed in, which the retailer determines himself, for example in the form of vouchers or raffle tickets.
Tickets and dog food
In Rome, the “+Ricicli +Viaggi” project allows used plastic bottles to be exchanged for bus and train tickets. The initiative received an award for innovation in politics from the Vienna-based organization “The Innovation in Politics Institute” in 2022. The same machines can also be found in Istanbul, Türkiye, and the metropolis also has another waste disposal attraction: An Automat that does not give out a deposit voucher when plastic bottles are returned, but dry dog food, specially designed for the city’s stray dogs.
Valuable and reusable
Finally, anyone traveling to poorer regions of the world could donate their empty plastic bottles to the locals. For example, collectors in rural parts of Mexico can hand in PET bottles to the recycling companies IMER and PLANETA for a fee. The Plastic Bank also exchanges return bottles for money or services. In Nigeria, there is even a school that accepts used plastic bottles as school fees from parents.
With deposit systems or creative return options, an awareness is created for the proper disposal of plastic bottles. And they are easy to recycle – either thermally into fresh energy or materially into new products. However, sustainability also starts at the beginning of their life journey: Even during production and transportation, plastic bottles save a lot of energy and emissions compared to glass containers or metal cans due to their low melting point and low weight.
Avery Dennison Unveils Premium Labels To Elevate Packaging For Luxury Brands In India
Avery Dennison South Asia a global leader in materials science and packaging solutions, has announced the launch of its Premium Labels range. This new offering includes a portfolio of textured substrates for premium labeling, specifically designed to elevate consumer experiences through unique surface textures and patterns.
In a marketplace where first impressions matter more than ever, premium packaging has become an indispensable element of brand identity. For luxury brands, labels are more than functional—they are statements of craftsmanship and quality. The Premium Labels range is tailored for key industries including food & beverages, and luxury beauty segments. These labels aim to redefine packaging by enhancing shelf appeal, driving brand differentiation, and catering to the aspirational demands of consumers, particularly Gen Z and millennials. The
Enhanced shelf appeal: Designed to capture consumer attention through and elegant packaging.
Sustainability focus: Labels are developed with a commitment to reducing environmental impact and promoting circularity.
Aspirational packaging: Meets the demands of the growing middle-class consumer base seeking special and personalized experiences.
Speaking on the launch, Saurabh Aggarwal VP & GM South Asia said, “Innovation lies at the core of Avery Dennison’s philosophy. As part of our motto, ‘Making Possible’ we believe in the powerful connection between intellect and imagination, science and technology, and the physical and digital. The launch of our Premium Labels range is a step forward in addressing this philosophy and represents our dedication to redefining what’s possible in the world of labeling. By combining innovative design with a commitment to sustainability, we empower brands to stand out on shelves and connect with consumers in meaningful ways.”
Avery Dennison’s India team commitment to sustainability and innovation drives every initiative it undertakes. By leveraging advanced technologies and sustainable practices, the company aims to create solutions that not only meet the needs of its customers but also contribute to a more sustainable and inclusive future. From reducing environmental impact to fostering circular economies, Avery Dennison continues to lead the way in reshaping industries for the better.
