Reresponsible Innovation - LIPOR's latest waste segregation hub unfolds
Bustling Beginnings on the Porto Outskirts
Welcome to a crisp Porto morning, where a fresh breeze whispers over the state-of-the-art "LIPOR 1" industrial complex. Despite the tranquility outside, a silent revolution stirs within these warehouses and sorting facilities. This isn't just any industrial hub; LIPOR, established in 1982, is responsible for waste treatment in eight Greater Porto area municipalities. Over one million residents call this region home, and LIPOR processes a mind-boggling 500,000 tons of their waste annually.
Their mission? Recycling as much waste as possible and protecting the environment. Alongside their recycling efforts, LIPOR runs comprehensive education and awareness programs to foster a greener mindset among the public.
Modern Marvels at 'LIPOR 1'
Gone are the days of manual labor in the once outdated facility. Since 2019, LIPOR has embarked on a modernization project, aiming to increase capacities and digitalize the entire process. Helder Filipe, Head of Operations and Logistics, has been leading the development of the site. After extensive research and testing, the decision to implement advanced solutions from STEINERT seemed natural.
The upgraded facility now boasts seven UniSort near-infrared (NIR) sorting systems, two STEINERT UME overhead suspension magnets, and one STEINERT CanMaster eddy current separator. This cutting-edge technology has transformed the tackling of 12,000 to 13,000 tons of waste annually, now processed with improved efficiency at 8 tons per hour—all with just a 12 to 14-person crew.
Navigating Challenges
Implementing automated processes wasn't easy, though. "Certainly, there was initial resistance and questions about potential job losses," Filipe candidly admits. However, LIPOR's team found a solution: employees were retrained and given new opportunities within the company. For Filipe and his colleagues, this means safety first—they can continue working in this field while machines handle the majority of the work.
A Sustainable Showcase
The LIPOR 1 industrial complex is more than just an efficient waste-processing facility. It's a shining example of how technology can foster sustainability. Thanks to STEINERT's technologies, LIPOR has made significant strides in reducing waste and improving material separation. Around 20 to 25 percent of recycling bin materials still cannot be recycled or are contaminated in Portugal. LIPOR's updated systems have helped increase their ability to utilize these materials, resulting in a substantial reduction in waste in various sorting fractions such as PET, PP, PE (in 3D and 2D), TetraPak, cans, iron, and paper.
This improvement is thanks to STEINERT's NIR sorting systems, which can distinguish between an array of materials based on their chemical composition and color. The systems also use AI-based sorting programs and air technology specifically designed for sorting 2D materials. Furthermore, advanced magnet separation technology helps separate metals, with the overhead suspension magnet STEINERT UME removing ferrous metals and the STEINERT CanMaster geared towards non-ferrous metals like aluminum cans.
Adaptable and Forward-Thinking
The facility's machines can adapt to new requirements and material properties, making it essential for ensuring the ecosystem's longevity as new packaging formats and materials emerge on the market. New legislation, such as the requirement to separate thermoformed PET, presents further challenges, but Filipe remains hopeful, collaborating with STEINERT to address these issues and stay at the forefront of waste management.
The Path Ahead for LIPOR 1
As Filipe gazes upon the facility, it's clear that there's still a long road ahead. Yet, the future is undeniable: "This is where the future lies," he says. Modernizing with technologies from STEINERT represents a powerful example of how companies can balance their environmental and social responsibilities through innovation, paving the way for change in waste management that transcends Porto's borders. The team's determination to push further, aiming for the highest level of productivity and capacity, ensures a sustainable waste management system for years to come.
It's a project of which Filipe and his colleagues are justifiably proud, representing a shining example of how innovation and sustainability can go hand in hand.
Insights into STEINERT's Technology and its Benefits:
- STEINERT's Technology in Waste Management: Soundly recognized for its advanced sorting technologies, STEINERT's systems utilize sensors and magnets to sort materials accurately, resulting in higher-quality recyclables.
- Benefits of STEINERT's Technology: Enhanced efficiency and quality, environmental benefits by maximizing recyclable material recovery and reducing waste sent to landfills, aligning with circular economy principles, and promoting sustainability.
- Science and technology collaboration led to the modernization of LIPOR 1's waste management facilities, improving efficiency and reducing waste through advanced sorting systems from STEINERT.
- Finance and industry intersect as LIPOR 1's investment in STEINERT's technology supports environmental-science initiatives, fostering a sustainable future while generating economic benefits through increased recycling capabilities.
