Tetra Pak® and Cycliq introduce Africa’s first recycled polyAl-based E-pallet, a game-changer for sustainable logistics.

In a landmark development for the African logistics sector, food processing and packaging solutions company Tetra Pak and Cycliq, a South African plastics injection moulding company, specialising in high-quality plastic pallet solutions have launched the continent’s first locally manufactured E-pallet, a modular and eco-friendly innovation set to redefine pallet usage across industries. This breakthrough solution is poised to reduce environmental impact while delivering enhanced durability and efficiency across logistics operations.

The E-Pallet, a product of a four-year collaboration between Cycliq and Tetra Pak, is crafted from an advanced blend of high-density plastic and poly-aluminium (polyAl) material derived from recycled Liquid Board Packaging (LBP). This sustainable design not only enhances the pallet’s load-bearing capacity but also underscores Tetra Pak and Cycliq’s commitment to supporting a circular economy.

“This partnership with Cycliq is a significant stride towards sustainable industrial innovation in South Africa. By reusing materials from recycled beverage cartons (LBP), we’re delivering a product that is not only highly durable but also plays a role in reducing waste. It’s an example of how collaboration and innovation can drive meaningful progress in environmental stewardship,” says Klaus Plenge, Managing Director at Tetra Pak South Africa.

The launch of the E-pallet will ensure the continued growth and demand of polyAl in the Southern African market, translating to a higher collection of cartons. Tetra Pak® has been working towards significantly increasing the recycling rate of LBP and achieved over 20% by mid-2024.

“The E-Pallet is a testament to how we can push the boundaries of sustainable manufacturing. By introducing Africa’s first E-pallet, we’re demonstrating the immense potential for locally-produced solutions that cater to the highest environmental responsibility and logistics performance standards,” says Cycliq’s Managing Director, Graham Colman.

Cycliq has also worked closely with Gayatri Paper Mills to process the recycled polymers used in the E-Pallet. The design incorporates six PET straps – produced from recycled beverage bottles – secured with a winch system inspired by yacht technology, ensuring optimal strength and performance for static, dynamic, and racking applications.

In addition to its unique use of recycled materials, the E-Pallet boasts various practical features:

• Standard size: 1 m x 1.2 m, with additional sizes available
• 4-Way fork entry: Simplifies handling across logistics environments
• Stackable design: Maintains structural integrity even when fully loaded
• Skid-resistant: Equipped with non-slip grommets to prevent load slippage
• Versatile configurations: Adaptable for use as a “three runners” pallet
• Sustainable lifecycle: Fully recyclable, durable and easy to clean
• Smart Integration: Can be embedded with RFID or Wi-Fi tracking devices for advanced logistics monitoring

The E-Pallet, marketed by Regenerated Polymers, a Level 2 BEE company, is available in a virgin option for cold-chain applications, capable of withstanding temperatures from -30°C to +30°C, ideal for industries with strict temperature requirements.

This collaborative innovation underscores both Tetra Pak and Cycliq’s dedication to advancing sustainable logistics solutions that are not only efficient but also aligned with environmental goals.