Recycled Glass Initiatives

July 14, 2024 In Tokyo, Japan, glass manufacturer AGC announced the successful completion of a groundbreaking test using recycled cover glass from solar panels in its float glass production process.

The test was conducted at AGC's Kashima plant and used approximately 5 tons of recycled glass. The test was conducted using low-temperature thermal decomposition technology in collaboration with Tokuyama Corporation. The technology is able to efficiently decompose and recycle glass from retired solar panels, ensuring that these materials can be effectively reused in new float glass products. This initiative marks an important milestone in AGC's efforts to promote environmental sustainability.

The test highlights the potential of recycling in the glass industry. In Europe, Verallia is strengthening its glass reuse program in Europe, focusing on creating economically viable and sustainable packaging options. Key initiatives include a pilot project for reusable wine bottles in Germany and support for the REBO2VINO wine bottle reuse system in Spain. In the United States, Alfred University, in collaboration with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and Silica-X, is developing concrete reinforced with recycled glass.

These initiatives reflect a broader commitment to sustainability and innovation in the glass industry, highlighting the importance of recycling and reuse in achieving environmental goals.