We are all aware that plastic waste is a big problem. The eco charity Surfers Against Sewage estimates that in the UK we buy 36.5 million single-use bottles every day, but according to the British Plastics Federation, only 59% of plastic bottles are collected for recycling, the rest end up in landfill or the oceans. We have a very long way to go.
The good news is that industries are finding different ways of recycling plastic and using recycled materials, and we have now added a new 100% recycled fabric to our range that has been described as an industry game changer. The new UFabrik is made entirely from recycled polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles that have been recovered from the sea. Once collected, the bottles are cleaned and sorted before being shredded and made into pellets which are then melted and spun into yarn. The material is then woven together to produce a wall canvas, which is then ready for printing.
The fact that it has been made from recycled materials isn’t the only reason to use UFabrik. It is a high-performing material that is strong, flame retardant and scrub resistant. The substrate is suitable for paste-to-the-wall applications and on wrap-around frames, making it ideal for large format printing.
Its eco-credentials make it perfect for companies that, like our own, need to compete in today’s marketplace but also want to reduce their carbon footprint.
Eco UFabrik is the perfect material for large print displays and wall coverings as well as hanging banners and canvas prints. Used by retailers as well as at exhibitions and events, it provides a durable backdrop for stands and displays, as branded wall coverings. Alternatively, you could use it to give your office a lift in the form of product images or images that will enhance the working environment.
The good news is that UFabrik does not need to end up in landfill at the end of its useful life, because it can be recycled again. It is suitable to be sent to an energy recovery facility to be safely and cleanly processed into renewable energy to help power the National Grid.
Studies have found that going green can benefit businesses in a number of ways beyond the obvious reduction in carbon footprint. Consumers are becoming more and more aware of their environmental impact and are embracing innovative products that will help them reduce their carbon footprint, as well as making a conscious effort to buy products from ethical companies. Employees are also becoming more concerned about environmental issues, and a company with green credentials is more likely to attract talented job seekers and also increase motivation among staff.
Sustainability is hugely important to us at KGK Genix, and we are extremely active behind the scenes in trying to find innovative solutions for greener materials and increased recycling. We want to be part of the green revolution, but at the same time we want to enable our clients to have the same high-quality products that will do the job brilliantly.
