Tübingen, July 30, 2024: Walter, a leading machining specialist, has announced a significant shift towards sustainability by adopting packaging made from up to 95% recycled plastic. This new packaging, known as PCR (Post-Consumer Recycled plastic), is a key component of the company’s strategy to enhance circularity and achieve over 90% recycling by 2030.
The transition to PCR packaging is one of four major sustainability targets Walter has set for the coming years. The company is committed to reducing its CO2 emissions by 50%, maintaining transparency and ethical practices, and ultimately becoming climate-neutral by 2050.
Gerhard Schüßler, Walter’s Head of Sustainability, highlighted the importance of these changes: “We have set ambitious sustainability goals for 2030 that impact every facet of our operations. The introduction of PCR packaging represents a significant step forward in our journey. Our overarching goal remains to achieve climate neutrality by 2050. Effectively reducing CO2 emissions at every opportunity is crucial, and our new packaging plays a vital role in this effort.”
The new recycled plastic packaging requires only half the energy to produce compared to new plastic, resulting in a 60-ton reduction in CO2 emissions relative to 2022. It also decreases reliance on fossil raw materials and reduces overall energy consumption.
To further minimize environmental impact, Walter plans to localize production of the packaging, setting up facilities at its distribution centers across various locations, in addition to its German operations.
Beyond its environmental benefits, the PCR packaging also meets performance standards. It offers the same level of protection against corrosion and damage as conventional plastic, ensuring that products remain safeguarded while reducing environmental footprint.
The adoption of the new packaging material began in 2023, with the aim to make it the standard for 85% of Walter’s products by 2024.