Environment
Cullet production is only part of the challenge
M
ore than 50 million tonnes of glass is produced a year globally but less than 40% is used for new glass production due to limited furnace capacity, quality, colour disparity, location, and economics. Sustainable low CO2 solutions are needed for the glass which is unsuitable for use in new glass production. Considering the commercial viability of this global problem requires a more inclusive approach, one not necessarily structured solely for glass cullet, but one where markets are driving the recycling, rather than legislation or recycling determining its use in markets offering CO2 savings over more traditional products.
All markets must offer environmental and economic benefits, focusing on the needs of each individual client and establishing an inclusive strategy ensures commercial viability of glass recycling no matter its location or traditional constraints. Innovative technologies to recover all types of glass no matter its type, size or quality offer challenges, in all cases it is clear that the true market potential and value of recycled glass is determined by the level of processing. Our experience shows innovation enhanced by effective knowledge transfer partnerships and collaborations, working with governments, universities, and other technologies to develop low CO2
solutions have long term benefits. Cooperation with universities has established innovations spanning agriculture, horticulture, composites and pozzolans, each research project assessing and developing the market, creating credible data, and enhancing technology for their cost-effective production. As markets evolve demands for thermal cleansing and ever finer materials drives innovation, improves productivity and enhances market viability of materials previously only suitable for landfill. Krysteline’s global Distributor and Sales agents are the eyes and ears of our marketplace, offering guidance on market Continued>>
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Steve Whettingsteel* discusses the increased importance of cullet as the glass industry tackles its CO2 footprint.
39 Glass International July/August 2021
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