Plastic injection moulding is the method employed to create a diverse range of plastic goods, from household items to automotive components. However, the traditional methods of plastic injection moulding have raised concerns about their environmental impact. Including high energy consumption, plastic waste, and increased CO2 emission. In response to these challenges, Thailand, like many other countries, has been increasingly focusing on sustainability and environmental concerns in recent years. Plastic manufacturers in Thailand have recognised the need to address sustainability concerns and taking various measures to respond to these challenges. Here are some ways in which they are working towards sustainability:
1. Recycling and Circular Economy Initiatives:
Many plastic manufacturers are investing in recycling and circular economy initiatives. They are developing and implementing recycling processes to reduce waste and promote the use of recycled materials in their production. This helps minimise the environmental impact of plastic production. For instance, at Fakuma 2023, the world’s leading trade event for industrial plastics processing, ARBURG transformed recycled materials from old fishing nets into adorable dolphins using a fully automated turnkey system. Furthermore, ARBURG has launched arburgGREENworld initiatives to raise awareness about sustainability. This recognition has earned ARBURG a Gold medal from EcoVadis, placing the company among the top five percent of the world’s most sustainable industrial companies that focus on reducing environmental impact and promoting the circular economy.
A flexible turnkey system processed recyclate from old fishing nets fully automatically in a sophisticated process to produce ultrasonically welded and printed dolphins.
2. Sustainable Materials: Manufacturers in Thailand are exploring the use of sustainable and biodegradable materials to replace traditional plastics. They are investing in research and development to create more environmentally friendly plastic alternatives, such as bioplastics made from renewable resources. Mitr Phol Group, a major player in Asia, is venturing into plant-based plastic. They aim to produce plastics using crop starch and petroleum. While fully plant-based plastics can be more expensive, Mitr Phol seeks to keep costs down while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. These innovative plastics can be used for various products, including bags.
3.Energy-Saving Machines: One of the most exciting things about sustainable injection moulding is the introduction of energy-efficient machines. Modern equipment is carefully designed to use less power, reduce heat loss, cut operational expenses, and reduce CO2 For instance, the new hybrid machine ALLROUNDER 470H is a standout. It has an energy footprint that’s up to 50% better, potentially emission reduction up to 12,000 kg of CO2 per year. This machine incorporates many technical innovations that are only available from ARBURG.
4. Waste Reduction: In 2019, the Thai Cabinet approved the Plastic Waste Management Roadmap, guiding coordinated efforts and policies from 2020-2030. This roadmap outlines a ban on seven single-use plastics and a commitment to achieve complete domestic plastic waste recycling within set timeframes. The initial goals included a ban on three single-use plastics: plastic bottle cap seals, oxo-degradable plastics, and plastic microbeads. Meanwhile manufacturers in Thailand are actively implementing waste reduction strategies to minimize the amount of plastic waste generated during production. These strategies include optimizing production processes and using resources more efficiently.
5. Automation and Turnkey Solutions: Smart manufacturers are now using automation and turnkey solutions to reshape manufacturing in Thailand by streamlining production, increasing productivity, and reducing costs. These technologies enhance quality control, improving safety, and simplify the implementation of new equipment. In line with this, ARBURG has established the ARBURG Technology Factory in Pinghu, China, to design and implement complete automation solutions. Additionally, they have launched the new ARBURG robot family – FLEXLIFT, which is intelligent, flexible, precise, and manufactured exclusively in Asia for the Asian market.
6. Compliance with regulations: Thailand has implemented regulations and standards to control plastic waste and promote sustainability. Plastic manufacturers must comply with these regulations, such as the Plastic Waste Management Act, to ensure that their operations align with sustainability goals.
7. Collaboration and Industry Initiatives: Manufacturers often collaborate with industry associations and government bodies to promote sustainability and uphold Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) values. They share best practices, knowledge, and resources to collectively work towards reducing the environmental impact of the plastic manufacturing industry. On May 26th of this year, leading plastic manufacturers in Thailand partnered with the Marine and Coastal Resources Research and Development Center at Mannai Island, where the sea turtle nursery is located. They organised the sea turtle conservation activity by releasing 10 baby sea turtles into the sea and contributed 100,000 Baht. This donation was directed towards supporting the Marine Center. The fund will be utilized to enhance sea turtle hatchery efforts and improve the survival rate of injured sea turtles affected by plastic pollution.
Leading plastic manufacturers in Thailand partnered with the Marine and Coastal Resources Research and Development Center at Mannai Island, organized the sea turtle conservation activity by releasing 10 baby sea turtles into the sea.
8. Green Certification: Some plastic manufacturers in Thailand seek and achieve green certifications such as ISO 14001 (Environmental Management System) or other relevant certifications to demonstrate their commitment to sustainability
Sustainable injection moulding in Thailand is not just a small change. It’s a game-changer in the manufacturing world. Manufacturers in Thailand are making smart choices in materials, saving energy, reducing waste, and improving processes. This doesn’t just cut their impact on the environment. It also set an example for other industries. It’s a bright future ahead for sustainable injection moulding in Thailand, leading to a greener and more promising tomorrow for everyone.
ARBURG (Thailand) Co., Ltd.