FINAT, a European self-adhesive labelling industry association, has announced the launch of ‘CELAB-Europe’, a new initiative designed with the purpose of creating a circular economy for self-adhesive label materials in Europe.
By establishing a representative value-chain organisation, CELAB-Europe hopes to work to identify and collectively scale recycling and re-use solutions for self-adhesive label liner and matrix materials.
The initiative aims to develop a sustainable and circular business model for over 75% of used liner and matrix materials in Europe by 2025.
The CELAB-Europe consortium is part of CELAB, a global self-adhesive industry initiative whose goal is to create a sustainable self-adhesive labelling industry by offering solutions and providing education to enable matrix and liner recycling.
CELAB-Europe was created earlier this year by four labelstock suppliers (Arconvert-Ritrama, Avery Dennison, Herma, UPM Raflatac) and FINAT. Nearly 20 companies from across the label value chain in Europe have since committed to supporting the initiative, including raw materials producers (papers, films, silicones, adhesives), labelstock producers, and label companies.
As the association with the largest interest group, FINAT will host the project, with management undertaken by SLOOP Consulting of The Netherlands, who were also involved in the foundation and management of the flexible packaging consortium CEFLEX.
FINAT’s president, Chris Ellison, said: “FINAT has always been active in raising awareness about the recycling of liner and matrix materials, and in promoting successful recycling solutions. I am proud and excited that our industry is now leveraging its resources collaboratively to take this important opportunity to the next level.
“Only with a collective effort that is shared across the value chain can we make a difference and contribute our part to achieving a circular business model for the labels and packaging industry in Europe.”
“The moment has arrived to create a globally focused platform for self-adhesive label recycling solutions,” added Paul Nathanson, a senior principal at Bracewell LLP and spokesperson for CELAB.
“CELAB’s structure includes a Global Steering Committee that serves as a ‘clearinghouse’ for best practices and solutions developed by CELAB-Europe and other regional branches that will be promoted globally.
"With increased recycling capability gradually emerging from suppliers, producers, waste management, mechanical and chemical recyclers and others, we see a tremendous opportunity to facilitate collaboration globally with partners up and down the industry’s value chain.”
