A new disposal option is available for non-recyclable substrates generated within 400 miles of Syracuse, New York. A partnership between a processing company and a power plant offer printers the option of recovering the energy from non-recyclable substrates by burning them to produce electricity and steam.

The following materials can be processed: pressure-sensitive labels, coated fiber and film, cores, mill wrappers, wax-coated cups, carbonless forms, flexible-packaging, and diaper stock. No hazardous waste is allowed, nor is food or municipal solid waste. Testing must be conducted to ascertain BTU, particulate matter and ash content.

Benefits of this process include: reduced sulfur emissions as coal is replaced, reduced disposal and liability costs compared with landfilling, and increased landfill life.

Authors: Mark Caplin and Sandy Briolat, Fibretek Energy/Channeled
Resources, 800-887-6866
Source: FLEXO, April, 1999, p. 16.