Packem Umasree inaugurates rPET bottle-to-bag factory in Ahmedabad

The joint venture between Packem SA and Umasree Texplast was inked in 2022 with a goal to excel in developing sustainable packaging innovation.

On 16 April, Packem Umasree inaugurated a rPET bottle-to-bag factory. The inauguration event saw over 150 delegates and invitees. Governor of Parana, Brazil, Carlos Roberto Massa Junior was invited as the guest of honour,

Punit Gopalka, CEO and director, Packem Umasree expressed, “With the launch of rPET Bottle-to-Bag plant, we focus on the recycling abilities that we can draw out from PET.” He said it is the “only polymer with infinite recycling possibilities”. Gopalka added, “This is a testament to the JV’s innovation and sustainability capabilities.”

Lazaro Eduardo Dos Santos Neto, chairman, Packem Group, told the dignitaries, “This joint venture highlights the importance of usage of rPET, and is a big step in the direction of sustainability. We have the highest PET recycling facility in the world in Parana, Brazil, with the capacity to recycle one billion tonnes of plastic.”

At Interpack last year, Packem Umasree launched its 100% sustainable FIBC Jumbo Bags made from recycled rPET/ PCR. The innovation earned the Worldstar Global Packaging Awards recognition for developing the first fertiliser bag-to-bag made from recycled PET.

Gopalka shared with us, “This venture contributes to the environment by providing sustainable packaging solutions to its customers worldwide. There is a lot of interest from customers who are focussed on sustainability, and finding a solution to the growing concerns related to plastic waste.”

The inauguration was attended by over 150 delegates and invitees

The company sources rPET/PCR as the raw material. Technology will be employed to convert 100% recycled PET into fabrics needed for product packaging. Umasree’s current manufacturing facilities follow compliance standards such as ISO 9001, ISO 22000 and BRC. Umasree's international experience gave rise to a separate clean room facility named Bulk Corp International. It is a BRC, ISO 9001:2015, ISO 14001:2015 and OHSAS 18001:2007 certified company, and is established to specifically manufacture food grade FIBC bags.

Gopalka mentioned that Packem Umasree concentrates on responding to the two challenges: Excessive use of plastic packaging and low levels of recycling. “The world must rethink packaging with a focus on GHG emissions reduction. The focus must also be on substituting raw materials,” he added.

One of the major outcomes of sustainable FIBC production is the reduction in generation of new plastic waste. At the same time, used PET bottle collection processes will be incentivised and monitored resulting in optimum results. This will save a lot of landfill space in India.