How can the use of resources and thus CO2-How can the carbon footprint of waste containers be reduced without sacrificing stability and service life? Which smart services can be used to digitalize and optimize the entire container management process, including route guidance in waste management? How can lithium-ion batteries and rechargeable batteries be collected and transported safely? Answers to these questions and corresponding solutions for the central challenges of the waste and recycling industry were the focus of SSI Schaefer Plastics' trade fair appearance at IFAT Munich 2024 from May 13 to 17 at the exhibition grounds in Munich. In addition to information and theme islands, the independent company, which is part of the SSI SCHAEFER Group, offered a wide range of solutions on the 300 m2 The large trade fair stand will feature two special highlights for soccer fans: a waste and recycling container team designed as the German team and a competition including an appearance by soccer legend Michael Rummenigge.
Resource-saving waste and recycling bin PRO Wave
Waste containers made of high-density polyethylene (DDPE) have proven themselves as durable and robust containers for the collection of organic, paper and household waste, as well as recyclables and lightweight packaging. SSI Schaefer Plastics has developed the PRO Wave product line with the aim of reducing the amount of material used in production and thus the weight of classic waste containers. Thanks to the wave contour and special base design, as well as the use of state-of-the-art production methods and injection molding machines, the amount of raw material used for the PRO Wave containers has been significantly reduced without compromising on stability and durability. This applies to both the PRO Wave containers made from virgin PE and the models made from compound, which is obtained from recycled PE. "The topic of sustainability is firmly anchored in our corporate strategy. This includes environmentally friendly production processes, the highest possible environmental compatibility and recyclability of our products as well as the use of compound. At PRO Wave, the use of compound and a new, resource-efficient design enables us to reduce the need for raw materials and CO2-emissions by up to 63 percent compared to conventional waste containers. In addition, the almost 30 percent lower container weight contributes to the health and performance of employees and reduces wear and tear and fuel consumption of the collection vehicles," explains Alexander Lutze, member of the management board at SSI Schäfer Plastics and responsible for waste technology. Due to these advantages for the environment, the PRO Wave container series is intended for certification with the "Blue Angel".
Communication between citizens, waste disposal companies and the municipality
At IFAT, SSI Schaefer Plastics presented the cloud-based DISPONDO platform, a holistic digital solution for waste and disposal logistics. The modular system with a wide range of solutions enables municipalities and companies to digitally manage containers, easily optimize routes and transparently record and verify collection performance. This increases the efficiency of disposal logistics processes and enables precise planning of individual resources, optionally combined with live monitoring. Using a QR code attached to the container, waste disposal companies and local authorities can give their customers access to a specific online offering, such as a web store, various services, an individual collection calendar or a citizen portal.
Live presentation of depot containers with fill level sensor
SSI Schaefer Plastics offers smart containers equipped with transponders or QR codes, as well as smart devices such as sensors, handheld devices and on-board computers for demand-oriented emptying. In the case of large-volume containers, fill level sensors measure the current fill level and report this to a route planning and optimization system This makes it possible to avoid unnecessary trips, plan routes more optimally and thus utilize the entire vehicle fleet more efficiently. Visitors to the trade fair were able to test this interaction of intelligent containers for themselves in a live demonstration. SSI Schaefer Plastics showed which devices in the waste collection vehicle provide which data with the "SMART on TOUR" exhibit.
Correct collection and transportation of lithium-ion batteries and rechargeable batteries
Due to the widespread use of lithium-ion batteries, the need for solutions for the safe handling and transportation of these sensitive energy storage devices is also growing. This is because the incorrect handling and transportation of yellow, i.e. used or damaged, batteries and rechargeable batteries in particular can be a fire hazard and therefore potentially life-threatening. With this in mind, SSI Schaefer Plastics presented the new SECON hazardous goods containers for the first time at IFAT. The Seacurity Containers are individual reusable packaging solutions - so-called constructive packaging (KVP) - for maximum product protection along the entire process chain - optionally also with a digital lock that can only be opened by authorized persons via a smartphone app.
"SSI Schaefer Plastics is setting new standards in waste management with innovations and high quality. By using our solutions, municipalities and companies can reduce their CO2-footprint and optimize their processes," emphasizes Alexander Lutze.
Highlight at the stand party - competition with Michael Rummenigge
This year, the highlight of the stand party with cocktails and finger food was an exciting competition with soccer legend Michael Rummenigge and attractive prizes. Visitors had the chance to win a place at Michael Rummenigge's soccer school, European Championship jerseys for the German national team and European Championship footballs. The winners were drawn after an interesting interview and a short quiz.
This trade fair once again gave SSI SCHAEFER Plastics the opportunity to welcome many visitors, including high-ranking national and international politicians. The exchange with customers and interested parties in such a setting brings good conversations, lots of fun and, of course, new ideas year after year.
