T3 (EPZ) Ltd, a member of Megh Group, has ordered a Starlinger recoStar PET
bottle-to-bottle recycling line for its new plant in Athi River, Kenya. With this project, T3 aims to contribute to the establishment of a circular economy with a positive impact on both the environment and society in the country. Driven by the need to stop pollution, preserve natural resources, and increase awareness about the benefits of recycling, the market for recycled PET in Kenya is growing. The food-safe rPET will be used in bottle preform production and for polyester fibre production in the textile and garment industries as well as for the group’s automotive trims and textile business
Megh Singh Cushion Makers. With thorough collection and sorting methods and processing on the FDA and EFSA-approved Starlinger recycling system, T3 ensures the produced rPET resin will be of the highest quality to meet
global standards. “As we were trying to develop a project to produce our own textiles for the automotive sector, we realised there is a big need for recycled materials in the textile and packaging industry”, explained Gurpreet Kaur Kenth, COO of T3. “Given the global shift from virgin to recycled materials with increasing consumer awareness and demand for sustainable products, there is a growing need for recycled polyester in Kenya. We see the opportunity of closing the loop in Kenya through bottle-to-bottle recycling.” The plastics recycling industry in Kenya is still in its early stages and faces challenges such as lack of input material and infrastructure, low levels of investment, and limited access to market information.
T3 has developed an extensive collection system throughout the country with the aim of building the right incentives for waste collectors, who are extremely marginalized. “Our social mission is to ensure no one is left behind as we develop the idea of a circular economy in Kenya”, said Ikreet Kenth, CTO of T3.
“Uplifting the informal sector through the impactful methods that we use to collect plastic waste enhances livelihoods by converting waste into a tradeable commodity, forming new trading networks and businesses, and generating employment.
“In addition, the reduction in the need for new raw materials helps to reduce environmental pollution and the carbon footprint, and to conserve resources for future generations.” Mr. Kenth added: “Starlinger wants to build relations and make a difference in the world. Our shared values convinced us to go ahead with their technology. Our goal has always been to put Kenya on
the global map when it comes to recycling.”