Converting equipment manufacturer Precision AirConvey (PAC) of Newark, DE, USA, and pressure sensitive label rollstock supplier Channeled Resources Group of Chicago, IL, USA, have formed a joint venture that offers a sustainable approach to label matrix waste management. The goal of the program is to divert cumbersome material from the waste stream and convert it to energy.

Developed to help label converters, printers, mail houses and other label matrix waste generators eliminate disposal costs for landfilling and/or incineration, the eco-friendly strategy begins by capturing the label matrix waste at the press and conveying it to a baler via an automated label waste handling system. The baled material is then collected and hauled to a nearby Greenwood Fuels waste to energy processing plant for use as feedstock.

“The logistics involved in collecting and hauling waste is usually what prevents recycling and waste to energy programs from being cost-efficient,” says Precision AirConvey CEO Tom Embley. “Our systems corral the waste in one place and Channeled Resources knows how to streamline logistics on a global scale so we’re very confident in the future of this partnership.”
This joint venture is to operate as a viable operation without government subsidies. A modest fee will be earned from the waste generators for this service. According to a joint statement made by the companies, this service is will enable companies to substantially save on their recurring disposal fees.

Greenwood Fuels converts label and other waste to combustible pellets, which then are sold to energy producers to replace coal. Greenwood’s one active plant is in Green Bay, WI, USA. The company plans to open a second in Dayton, OH, USA, next year. At least one Ohio label converter is supplying waste, and Greenwood has customers for the pellets. A third plant is reportedly on the drawing board.

Precision AirConvey Corporation designs, manufactures, and installs automated trim and scrap removal systems for some of the world’s largest corporations. Channeled Resources Group is in the field of reprocessed specialty paper and film; their mission is to channel cost effective and environmentally responsible solutions to their global customers and suppliers.