Samsung Enhances Approach to its Recycled Plastic Initiatives

In a recent announcement at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Los Angeles, Samsung Electronics unveiled its new business vision, placing a strong emphasis on artificial intelligence (AI) with the theme of 'AI for All.' The tech giant shared insights into its strategic direction during the event, which took place from January 9 to January 12.

Following the AI-centric focus, Samsung shifted attention to sustainability as a key component of its renewed business strategy. Material choice, particularly the integration of recycled plastics, emerged as a pivotal aspect of the company's commitment to environmental responsibility.

The environmental strategy outlined by Samsung encompasses specific sustainability milestones to be achieved over the next two decades. By 2030, the company aims to use recycled resin in 50% of plastic parts, and by 2050, the goal is to incorporate recycled resin in all plastic components, showcasing a long-term commitment to sustainable manufacturing practices.

At the CES event, Samsung's booth featured a dedicated sustainability zone that illustrated the company's efforts in promoting resource circularity. Notably, the walls in this zone were constructed using recycled ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) and recycled PP (Polypropylene), developed by Samsung's Circular Economy Lab. The innovative r-ABS is crafted from recycled Styrofoam sourced from Samsung product packaging, while r-PP is derived from the recycling of various by-products generated in the production of household goods.

Samsung's commitment to sustainable practices aligns with broader industry trends, with other major tech companies also highlighting their initiatives in recycled plastics. LG Electronics, for instance, announced an expansion of the use of recycled plastics in 19 product categories. The company has set an ambitious target to incorporate a cumulative 600,000 tons of recycled plastics in its products from 2021 to 2030.

LG Chem, a subsidiary of LG Electronics, plays a key role in this endeavor by producing ABS and polycarbonate products with recycled content. Furthermore, LG Chem plans to extend its range of PCR (Post-Consumer Recycled) products to include PO (Polyolefin) and PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride), demonstrating a comprehensive approach to sustainable materials. Notably, LG Chem has also made significant investments in chemical recycling, showcasing a commitment to advancing environmentally friendly practices.

Samsung's dual focus on AI advancement and sustainable practices underscores its commitment to innovation and responsibility in the evolving landscape of technology. As the company paves the way for a future dominated by artificial intelligence, it simultaneously takes significant strides towards reducing its environmental footprint through the strategic integration of recycled plastics in its product ecosystem. The tech industry's collective emphasis on sustainability signals a positive shift towards more eco-conscious practices, setting the stage for a greener and technologically advanced future.