Global paper and packaging company Mondi has hosted a roundtable event to address the issue of recycling used paper bags in the construction sector.  

The event, claimed to be the first of its kind, took place in Madrid, Spain. 

It aimed to develop a system that would prevent the disposal of these materials by establishing efficient collection, sorting, and recycling processes on an industrial scale. 

The roundtable brought together representatives from various segments of the construction value chain, including Neinor Homes, Arpada, OHLA, and others.  

These stakeholders are said to be united in their commitment to enhancing the circularity of paper bags used in construction, recognising the importance of collaboration and dialogue to achieve this goal. 

The event follows a successful pilot project led by Mondi in Spain, which demonstrated the feasibility of a collection and recycling system for used paper bags.  

The pilot highlighted the lack of large-scale recycling infrastructure for paper bags in the construction sector, leading to the loss of valuable fibres.  

Mondi Flexible Packaging circular economy manager Carlos Martinez Ezquerra said: “Improving the circularity of used paper bags in this industry is vital and our successful Spanish pilot project shows that it can become reality - but Mondi cannot do it alone.

"We need committed partners at every stage of the value chain to collaborate closely and create a successful model that can close the loop."