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GARA to launch at ADF

Written on: January 12, 2025 by SprayTM

Global Aerosol Recycling Association seeks to standardize aerosol recycling…

The Global Aerosol Recycling Association (GARA) officially launched “the first global platform dedicated to standardizing and advancing aerosol recycling practices.” GARA provides resources, training and advocacy to address the environmental and safety challenges posed by aerosol container recycling while fostering collaboration across the industry. GARA was launched to the global aerosol industry at the Aerosol & Dispensing Forum (ADF) during Paris Packaging Week in January.

According to the organization, its mission is to tackle an underserved waste stream by creating a unified, global approach to aerosol recycling. The association is focused on setting new standards for environmental impact reduction, safety training and sustainability.

            GARA intends to serve as a global resource hub, offering:

 

  • Standardized aerosol recycling methods: Establishing consistent practices to address aerosol waste management worldwide.
  • Environmental impact guidance: Tools to quantify and mitigate the carbon footprint of aerosol recycling. Assisting organizations in aligning their efforts with carbon reduction goals by assisting in carbon credit calculations.
  • Safety training & handling protocols: Training tools, webinars and on-site training will be offered to help ensure safe processing and handling of aerosols. Site safety assessments and safety planning are available to GARA members.
  • Online training & webinars: Accessible educational sessions covering topics specific to aerosol recycling and sustainability.
  • Specialized recycling programs: Targeted solutions for diverse aerosol waste streams will each have a separate program including, but not limited to, curbside collection programs, HHW sites, post-commercial big box store rejects, aerosol manufacturer waste, spray paint recycling and personal care products.
  • Advocacy & awareness: Promoting the importance of aerosol recycling and highlighting its role in reducing global warming.
  • The sharing of technological advancements: Showcasing cutting-edge recycling methods to meet “End of Waste” requirements.
  • The driving of industry transformation: By creating recycling programs tailored to specific waste streams and providing advanced solutions for difficult-to-recycle products, GARA helps organizations meet global sustainability targets while bolstering corporate responsibility.

 

“The aerosol industry has a unique opportunity to lead by example in environmental stewardship,” stated Mike MacKay, Founder of GARA, as well as Co-Founder & Managing Director of DeSpray B.V.

“By uniting under GARA, we can implement safer, Greener recycling methods while positioning the aerosol industry as a model for circular economy practices.”

            More info: thegara.org