What is actually recycling, upcycling or second generation wood and what does it have to do with us?
In discussions with customers and business partners, we repeatedly find that the terms upcycling, recycling, and second generation are used in different contexts and forms in connection with our starting materials or raw materials for our products.
Here we have compiled the most important information on these terms for you and show how this relates to our CelPen and our sustainable packaging solutions.
Recycling, upcycling or second generation
Upcycling, recycling and second generation are different approaches to the sustainable use of resources, but have different focuses and approaches. The main difference between these approaches is in the way materials are used. Upcycling focuses on the creative reuse of materials, recycling on the reprocessing of waste to create new products, and second-generation on the use of, for example, existing wood to reduce deforestation of natural forests. All three approaches contribute to sustainability by conserving resources and reducing waste, but in different ways.
Consumers can support these approaches by choosing products made from recycled or upcycled materials or using second generation wood.
We firmly believe that sustainable packaging made from Second Generation Wood, or upcycled, rescued and upgraded wood makes a difference and we all have the power to contribute to a more sustainable future.
A decision we support with every stroke.
Recycling involves collecting waste and breaking it down into its original components or raw materials to make new products or materials. The goal is to preserve the value of the raw materials and use the resources efficiently. Waste is sorted, cleaned and recycled to extend its life and reduce the need for new raw materials. The volume of waste is reduced and the service life of raw materials is extended.
Upcycling - turning old into new
Upcycling" is a combination of "recycling" and the English word "up" (translated: "up" or "upwards"). Upcycling transforms existing objects, residual or waste materials into something new. It allows for the creation of new value and resource efficiency by using existing materials in a new context and reducing waste. Upcycling is a practical way to reduce your environmental footprint and contribute to sustainability.
Upcycled wood refers to the use of recycled wood material, usually from old furniture or other wood products, as well as wood waste, such as wood chips, generated by sawing and planing processes in the woodworking industry. It is therefore salvaged, revitalized, reclaimed or even upgraded wood.
Upcycled wood can therefore be seen as a synonym for Second Generation wood.
Second Generation - Already existing wood resources
Second Generation Wood refers to wood that comes from sustainably managed forests or is recycled or upcycled from other wood products, such as wood waste. It is wood that is not obtained from direct logging of natural forests, but from existing wood resources. Thus, Second Generation Wood does not require additional deforestation. Thus, it contributes to the conservation of wood as a resource.
In addition, the use of Second Generation Wood reduces the ecological footprint by reducing the need for energy and water during the manufacturing process.