Tetra Pak has funded the installation of two robotic arms to improve the sorting of food and beverage cartons at J&B Recycling’s materials recovery facility (MRF) in Hartlepool. The technology, developed by Recycleye, is designed to boost recycling rates and prepare for upcoming national waste regulations.
J&B Recycling, part of FCC Environment, processes waste for local authorities including Newcastle, Sunderland, North Tyneside, Hartlepool, and Hull. The upgrade allows for better separation of cartons from mixed waste streams.
“This demonstrates our commitment to improving the UK’s recycling infrastructure,” said Awantika Chadha, Sustainability Manager at Tetra Pak UK. “We believe in a highly effective recycling system and are collaborating with partners like Recycleye to make that happen.”
Recycleye CEO Victor Dewulf said the installation was completed with minimal disruption. “Our robotic arm has a track record of improving carton sorting. We’re proud to support the industry with this technology.”
This is part of a £1.4 million investment Tetra Pak is making in 2025 across three UK facilities. Two other sites will be announced later. The funding contributes to a larger annual global investment of £34 million into recycling infrastructure, including £2.4 million specifically earmarked for the UK.
Mandy Kelly, CEO of ACE UK, noted the timing. “This comes as local authorities prepare for Simpler Recycling, which will increase kerbside carton collections. It’s a practical example of industry cooperation improving outcomes.”
The new equipment supports upcoming regulations requiring separate recycling of materials from March 2026. J&B’s Managing Director Vikki Jackson-Smith called it “a meaningful step” toward more efficient and responsible waste management.