How are Rosti Group supporting customers with Renewable and Recycled Material Selection?

As companies worldwide commit to ambitious global reduction targets and science-based goals, there is a growing need to reduce emissions, adopt sustainable materials, and optimise design and energy use.

We are committed to always have 100% Renewable or Recycled materials available for every design by 2030, as we support our customers to reduce the environmental impact of production.

Our ability to deliver real value comes when we are involved in the early stages of product design and development. By engaging with our team at the outset, customers can benefit from expert advice, analysis, and testing of various material types and production processes. This ensures that the design brief is optimised for sustainability.

The Importance of Early Engagement in Material Selection

The best time to consider renewable and recycled materials is during the initial design and concept stage or when updating the design of an existing product. Early discussions allow for a holistic approach to material selection, ensuring that sustainability is embedded from the start. Research indicates that 80% of product emissions are determined at the design stage. By designing for the lowest emissions, companies can make a significant impact on their carbon footprint.

At Rosti, most of our sites have extensive experience working with renewable and recycled materials across various sectors. Our understanding of these materials enables us to guide customers through the complexities of sustainable material selection, ensuring that performance, aesthetics and tolerances are maintained.

Overcoming Material Change Challenges

One of the primary challenges associated with switching to renewable materials is understanding their properties, including strength, durability, and tolerance levels. The transition may also require investment in re-tooling, which can be a barrier to adoption. However, Rosti offers solutions that help mitigate these concerns.

For instance, many of our sites have transitioned to mass-balanced materials—a blend of virgin and renewable materials. This approach maintains the physical integrity of the product while reducing environmental impact. Customers can achieve sustainability goals without compromising on performance or investing heavily in new tooling.

Another innovation we support is microcellular foaming, where gas is injected into the material. This technique helps to reduce weight while maintaining the shape and aesthetics of a product. It is particularly useful for applications where lightweighting is a priority without sacrificing product shape or surface finish.

Sustainability and Innovation Centres

Rosti is continuously investing in Sustainability & Innovation Centres, providing customers with access to the latest technology, expertise, and material testing facilities. Our global network of centres enables us to collaborate closely with customers, identifying the most suitable recycled or renewable materials based on specific design and performance requirements.

Whether you are looking to change materials, remove weight from a product, or introduce more efficient production methods, our in-house teams are equipped to help. By leveraging our expertise, companies can make informed decisions that align with both sustainability targets and manufacturing feasibility.