Smurfit Kappa Recycling UK has signed a new contract with Lancashire Renewables Ltd to process approximately 15,000 tonnes per annum of Lancashire County Council’s kerbside collected household mixed paper.

As one of the world’s largest paper-based packaging manufacturers, Smurfit Kappa’s circular business model helps to embed sustainability in every fibre.

The mixed paper will predominately be handled through Smurfit Kappa’s Blackburn Recycling Operation, where it will be baled for onward shipment to one of Smurfit Kappa’s network of paper mills for reprocessing into new paper for Smurfit Kappa’s packaging division.

Ian Ledson, General Manager UK North for Smurfit Kappa Recycling, said “Our Blackburn depot sits in the middle of Lancashire so it’s a great fit, not only from a carbon footprint point of view, but also from an employment perspective. The volume enables us to create additional employment opportunities which is great news for Blackburn and Lancashire.” He went on to add: “I am extremely proud that we have been able to offer Lancashire a sustainable solution for their household waste paper and look forward to developing the relationship further over the coming years.”

Paul Bindle, General Manager of Lancashire Renewables, said: “We are committed to finding alternative, more sustainable and environmentally-friendly solutions for Lancashire’s waste, and the new contract with Smurfit Kappa Recycling UK further supports this commitment. We look forward to continuing to build on our close working relationship over the initial contract duration and longer term.”