40 percent of PCR (post-consumer recycling) glass was demonstrably used in industrial glass production at Gerresheimer in Momignies, Belgium, from January 1 to June 30, 2020.
RDC environment, a Belgian-based consultancy firm for environmental studies and analyses, certified after thorough examination that the quantity of PCR glass used in relation to the quantity of glass packaging sold corresponds to a recycling or PCR glass content of over 40 percent.
“We are very happy about this certificate. It confirms that our commitment to greater sustainability in cosmetics glass production using recycled cullet is the right way forward,” said Nicola Balena, VP Global Business Management Cosmetic Moulded Glass, referring to Gerresheimer’s leading market role. The check was carried out on criteria established by the European Container Glass Federation (FEVE).
Gerresheimer has already been committed to the use of recycled glass for 10 years and, in collaboration with customers, has developed a high-quality cosmetics glass for the production of flacons, jars and numerous other cosmetics bottles. Its share of recycled cullet has been steadily increased in recent years and now stands at an exceptionally high level of over 40 percent.
“We feel committed to the recycling economy and if something can be successfully reproduced over and over again, it is glass,” added Nicola Balena. The success proves him right. Over the years, customer interest in sustainable cosmetics packaging has grown steadily, so Momignies can proudly point to full utilization of PCR glass.
The Gerresheimer production plants in Momignies, Belgium, and Tettau, Germany, form the Center of Excellence for highly specialized and sustainable Gerresheimer cosmetic glass production.
More sustainability without aesthetic compromises
Glass flacons and jars are the most important packaging material for many cosmetic products, as they look elegant, convey quality and protect the contents at the same time. Glass is also a 100 percent recyclable material and can be reprocessed into glass many times over in a closed-loop economy.
The higher the proportion of recycled glass used, the less energy is required for production. This means that the amount of recycled glass used at the Momignies and Tettau sites leads to energy savings in the production phase compared to non-recycled glass. The use of recycled glass also helps to conserve valuable natural resources, as glass is made from quartz sand, sodium carbonate and calcium oxide, as well as dolomite, feldspar, potash and iron oxide for colouring.
Gerresheimer as a partner to the cosmetics industry
Gerresheimer’s portfolio comprises innovative glass and plastic packaging for perfume, cosmetics and personal care. It has a large number of standard shapes as well as customized packaging to meet individual requirements. As a leading partner for selective cosmetics and mass and mass markets, the company offers sustainable and state-of-the-art technologies, individual finishing and decoration techniques and various materials for the production of high-quality packaging solutions.