Vikan Tools Take-Back Programme for Sustainability

Discover Vikan's sustainable tool take-back programme - a solution we're developing to collect used Vikan tools from our end-users and recycle them into new Vikan products. It's our latest attempt to solve the environmental challenges associated with the disposal of multi-material cleaning tools.

The Challenge

Vikan brushes and brooms are made of polypropylene blocks, polyester filaments, and metal staples. Handles and stainless-steel scrapers are made of polypropylene and metal. These constructions are chosen to create effective, strong, and durable products. Unfortunately, multi-material products like these are not suitable for direct recycling. Today, frequently used disposal methods for such products are incineration or landfill.

The Solution

Reduction of waste and resource-use efficiency are important parts of our sustainability commitment. We have, in cooperation with an external partner, developed a system where internally scrapped brooms and brushes are processed, meaning filaments and metals are separated from the brush and broom blocks. The useful polypropylene is then converted to granules that can be re-used in the manufacturing of parts for our Transport and Classic product series.

We wish to expand this system further to cover end-of-life products and develop a take-back programme for end-users and distributors. Our goal is to create a seamless process for the recycling and reuse of our products, and ultimately reduce our environmental impact.

How it works

When Vikan products are worn out, they will be gathered and shipped back to Vikan. We will have the products sorted and separated into polypropylene pellets, metal, and non-recyclable waste. The polypropylene pellets will be used for non-food contact products in our Transport and Classic ranges.

How can you help?

Our take-back programme is currently in the development phase, but we would like to invite end-users to participate in this project. We believe that working together with our customers is key to the success of this initiative.

If you are able to collect used Vikan products and would like to be a part in the development of our take-back programme, please contact HSEQ Manager Jesper Søbjørn, JSO@vikan.com or use our online form here.