Vikan Tools Take-Back Programme

Discover Vikan's 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 initiative aimed at minimising the environmental impact associated with the disposal of multi-material cleaning tools.

The Challenge

Vikan brushes and brooms are made of polypropylene blocks, polyester bristles, and metal staples. Handles and metal-bladed scrapers are made of polypropylene and stainless-steel. The plastic materials we use in the manufacture of tools that come into contact with food and food contact surfaces must, legally, be food contact compliant. This means we must use virgin plastics, as there is currently no suitable sustainable alternative. Our construction materials are also chosen to create effective, strong, and durable products. Unfortunately, multi-material products like these are not currently suitable for direct recycling. Consequently, they are frequently incinerated or sent to landfill.

The Solution

Reducing our waste and optimising resource use are important initiatives within our sustainability strategy. Consequently we have, in co-operation with an external partner, developed a pilot programme where we 'take-back' Vikan tools that have reached the end of their usable life, and process them to separate the different materials component parts.

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, metal, and non-recyclable waste. The polypropylene will be re-used for the production of 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 users of our products to participate in this project. At this point, we are only testing the take-back programme in Europe, as we do not have an efficient way to get products back from farther destinations at this time. If you are able to collect used Vikan products, and would like to help support this sustainability initiative, please contact sustainability@vikan.com or use our online form here below. 

We believe that working together with our customers is key to the success of this initiative and we look forward to partnering with you.