The partnership will combine the recycling expertise of ALPLA with Re-Purpose’s know-how in reverse logistics of post-consumer plastic waste via source-oriented collection programmes
Austrian recycler ALPLA Group and waste converting company Re-Purpose have joined forces to enhance sustainable packaging solutions and bolster the feedstock value chain for the former’s first ever polyethylene terephthalate (PET) recycling plant in Africa.
ALPLA is investing €60m to construct a 90,000m2 recycling plant in Ballito in the South African province of KwaZulu-Natal.
Construction of the recycling facility is underway, with commissioning slated for early next year.
Upon completion, the site will have the annual capacity to produce 35,000 tonnes of recycled PET (rPET).
The partnership will combine ALPLA’s recycling expertise with Re-Purpose’s know-how in reverse logistics of post-consumer plastic waste via source-oriented collection programmes.
Re-Purpose has four material recovery facilities around KwaZulu-Natal. Additionally, the company is empowering local communities and buy-back centres to secure and divert plastic waste.
Re-Purpose founder and managing director Bevlen Sudhu said: “We are excited to join forces with ALPLA to drive innovation and sustainability in the recycling industry.
“By combining ALPLA’s extensive recycling experience with our reverse collection model, we are expanding the circular economy and supporting manufacturers in achieving the required EPR targets.”
Through the partnership, the two companies seek to advance the circular economy. Concurrently, it will generate a significant number of employment opportunities across KwaZulu-Natal and neighbouring regions.
Furthermore, Re-Purpose will optimise the use of its existing baling centres while establishing new facilities for PET bottle collection.
The waste converting company will also support ALPLA in establishing a supplier network for PET bottle bales, extending community outreach, and improving source separation initiatives.
The Austrian recycler said these centres will aim to collect 5,000 tons of PET monthly. This volume is anticipated to meet the demand for full-capacity operation at ALPLA’s recycling plant by 2026.
ALPLA recycling division managing director Dietmar Marin said: “We are thrilled to partner with Re-Purpose to accelerate our journey towards a more sustainable future.
“This collaboration allows us to expand our portfolio of packaging solutions made from recycled PET material, offering our customers in the region innovative alternatives that align with their sustainability goals.”