Beko plc has been announced as the winner of RECOUP plastics recycling charity’s ‘Recycled Plastic Product of the Year’ award in recognition of its use of a by-product from recycled PET in its range of RecycledTub washing machines and washer dryers. RECycling of Used Plastics Limited (RECOUP) is a charity and leading authority providing expertise and guidance across the plastics recycling value chain.
The awards, announced at the RECOUP conference on 29th September at KingsGate Conference Centre, Peterborough, celebrated the innovations and achievements within the plastics recycling industry, acknowledging companies who are pushing the boundaries in terms of opportunities for recycled content as well as new ways to improve recyclability and resource efficiency.
Beko RecycledTub washing machines and washer dryers help reduce the negative effects of plastic on the environment by using up to 60 PET bottles in the production of their tubs, a world first in home appliances. Using innovative technology, a by-product from recycled PET is transformed into high performance materials used in the tubs, being kinder to the planet without compromising on durability and performance.
The awards generated significant interest from across the plastics resources and recycling value chain and Beko’s RecycledTub technology stood out amongst other entries in the ‘Recycled Plastic Product of the Year’ category.
Stuart Foster, CEO of RECOUP, said: “Not only did Beko’s entry prove to increase the recycled content by replacing some PP and fibreglass with recycled PET flakes and reduce CO2 emissions and energy consumptions with its patented production method, but the product is scalable to use not only across washing machines, but also tumble dryers and some dishwashers. The market scale was the most impressive aspect of this entry.”
Beko plc’s MD, Teresa Arbuckle, added: “Beko plc is thrilled to have won the RECOUP award for our recycled PET washing machine tubs. It’s vital that manufacturers find innovative ways to use the range of plastic coming from recycling plants, reducing our reliance on virgin raw materials, and moving to a circular economy. These awards shine a spotlight on what can be achieved through creative thinking and prioritising investment in R&D and we congratulate all winners and nominees.”
