MacDermid Graphics Solutions Introduces Process to Convert Flexographic Plates into Renewable Sustainable Material

ATLANTA, Georgia - MacDermid Graphics Solutions has developed a new process to recycle flexographic printing plates. This patent-pending technology will start trials in North America by the end of the year.

“Over 20 million lbs. of flexographic plates end up landfilled or used in waste-to-energy processes every year in the US alone. This compelled us to develop our own technology to expedite a renewable and sustainable way to eliminate this waste by focusing on total reuse,” said Ryan Vest, Director of Innovation at MacDermid Graphics Solutions (MGS). 

MacDermid Graphics Solutions has partnered with Sustainable Solutionz, LLC to manage the process of waste removal and recycling. Sustainable Solutionz, LLC will bring this process to market. 

 “Our industry identified a responsibility to repurpose flexographic plates and corrugated carriers that occupy landfills,” said Gerry Mounsey, Co-Founder of Sustainable Solutionz, LLC. “We are pleased to introduce meaningful technology to reduce the packaging industry’s carbon footprint.”

“MacDermid Graphics Solutions is committed to sustainability. Actively managing environmental issues is our responsibility as a good corporate citizen. We are committed to protecting our planet by combating climate change, including contributing to a lower-carbon future, and being responsible water and waste stewards,” said Michael Goralski EVP, Head of Industrial & Specialty at Element Solutions Inc. “This technology is another example of our continued progress towards reducing our carbon footprint.” 

Sustainable Solutionz, LLC develops chemistries to displace petroleum-based technologies with sustainable and renewable products. Our mission is to drive the recovery and reuse of elastomeric materials and to provide meaningful alternatives for landfill disposal that align with industry objectives.

MacDermid Graphics Solutions, a division of Element Solutions Inc, is a global leader in the manufacturing of photopolymer plates and equipment used in flexographic printing. We deliver high-quality graphic capabilities for package printing. Our mission is to provide a world-class customer experience, while meeting flexographic printing plate needs with award-winning technology. This is achieved through creating strategic value for our customers from start to finish. We are an open provider and offer the best possible solutions via industry partnerships. 

MacDermid Graphics Solutions is passionate about our planet and our industry. We consider ESG to be a business imperative, an extension of our growth strategy and a reflection of our values. We are a founding partner of the Flexo Xperience Center.