China: E-cigarette producer RLX Technology has announced a planned investment of US$3.10m in a used vape pod recycling scheme. The company will supply the plastic waste for use as an alternative fuel (AF) in cement production. It has partnered with the China Siyuan Foundation for Poverty Alleviation to supply the cement produced to infrastructure projects in rural areas.

CEO Kate Wang said “As one of the most essential materials for infrastructure, cement is key to the rural economy. Thus, RLX Technology plans to donate the cement to build roads, bridges and clean lavatories to improve the life of rural citizens.”

RLX Technology will launch vape pod collection in Beijing in September 2021, followed by 10 other cities before February 2022.

Norway: Geminor has signed a contract with Renovasjon i Grenland to handle and treat 7000t/yr of municipal solid waste (MSW) for two years to 2023 with an option to extend to 2026. The MSW will be transported to Geminor's partner in the project, Bjorstaddalen Næring. This company will process the waste at its Skien plant in Telemark. The plant uses robotic sorters that can perform up to 6000 picks/hr. The unit also uses ‘unique’ sensor technology that enable shape, colour and material identification. This system can also be taught to recognise new fractions.

Bjorstaddalen Næring chief executive officer Sindre Hauen said “Better sorting means better use of materials.” He added “In case of new market opportunities - or even regulations - the system can be taught to recognise new fractions. We want to be in front when it comes to robot sorting, and are constantly looking for better solutions in our waste management.”

Portugal: Secil has ordered a 300m3/hr alternative fuel (AF) pipe conveyor for its Outão cement plant from Italy-based Bedeschi. The conveyor will have a diameter of 250mm and conveying length of 350m. The supplier says that it will enable safe and clean transportation of AF unhindered by the steep incline and curve and the difficulty of the materials.

Spain: UK-based Andusia has successfully completed its first delivery of solid recovered fuel (SRF) from its Beaupark Associated Waste Management SRF plant in Leeds, West Yorkshire to a cement plant in Spain. The supplier says that the delivery marks the start of the supply of 5000t/yr to the plant. The fuel will replace a portion of the coal and petcoke in the plant’s kiln line.