The current linear model—take, make, dispose—simply does not work in the long run. When it comes to PET bottles, it means valuable resources are used once and then discarded, creating unnecessary waste and environmental impact.
PET can be recycled effectively, but achieving that at scale depends on a few essentials: bottles must be deposited correctly, then properly sorted and processed, and there must be real demand for the recycled output. If any one of these is missing, the loop breaks.
Making the circular system work in practice locally
We focus on improving each stage of the PET journey so more material is recovered and so the recycled PET is good enough to be used again and again.
1) Better collection and cleaner material from the start
Good recycling begins before a bottle ever reaches a facility.
Clearer sorting
We work with collection partners and local authorities to encourage proper separation, helping to reduce contamination from leftover liquids, food residue and non-PET plastics.
Smarter logistics
In a dense city, collection has to be efficient. We support practical collection methods that help reduce cost and carbon impact while improving what is captured.
2) Strong processing and quality control
Once bottles arrive at the plant, the priority is to turn them into reliable, high-quality recycled material.
Removing contaminants
Through staged washing and separation, we remove contaminants such as labels, adhesives and problematic materials like PVC, so the PET can be recycled properly.
Keeping clear PET clear
Only transparent PET can be recycled back into bottles, so we have to remove all colour PET bottles. These are sent to local recyclers for lower grade recycling.
Supporting better bottle design
We work with brand owners on eco design that improves recylability, such as transitioning away from colour PET, encouraging the use of long sleeves or excessive use of glue, and avoiding the use of PVC labels.
3) Building steady demand for rPET
A circular economy only works if the recycled material is used.
Supplying bottle-to-bottle rPET
We produce a high grade of recycled flake that can be return to bottle production. There is strong demand for the use of rPET in beverage bottles from environmentally conscious consumers and brands.
Helping to close the loop in Hong Kong
We're particularly proud to be offering a closed loop in Hong Kong. As an example, all Coca-Cola's 500ml bottles produced in Hong Kong are now made from rPET that has been processed at New Life Plastics.
