Fagerhult ✕ Hydro
A collaboration to close the loop.
Aluminium is a uniquely durable material that can be recycled almost endlessly. But like all materials, it needs to be handled responsibly. Many of our luminaires have an extruded aluminium body, and we want to ensure that they can be optimally recycled in the future. In a joint pilot project with Hydro Extrusion Sweden focusing on circular processes, we have explored how we can utilise extruded aluminium – while maintaining material properties.
Recycling in new light
When extruded aluminium luminaires are recycled, the properties of the material often undergo downgrading, and the material is then used in die casting, for example. The pilot project was initiated in connection with Norwegian Property's ambition to achieve more efficient energy use at Snarøyveien 30 in Oslo. Fagerhult then had an opportunity to reclaim a large number of Notor luminaires to explore the possibilities of recycling and circular processes.
Innovative mindset
With the goal of closing the loop and ensuring the qualities of the material, the luminaires were removed and transported to our factory in Fagerhult where they were disassembled and sorted. They were then sent to Hydro Extrusion Sweden, the original producer, and the aluminium was melted down, processed, and reshaped. Throughout the collaboration, circular processes and sustainable innovations have been explored with a focus on how Fagerhult can take new steps beyond the norm and the expected. Together, we have been able to push the boundaries of what has previously been possible – and we have taken a major step towards processes in which extruded aluminium luminaires can be handled circularly in the future.
The pilot project was carried out in collaboration with Hydro Extrusion Sweden, a leading aluminium and energy company striving for a sustainable future with the aim of creating viable communities and developing natural resources into innovative products and solutions.
Circular motion
Based on the methods in our pilot project, we can now reuse and ensure the quality of aluminium in more of our luminaire frames – while preserving material properties and the raw material’s original value. The extruded aluminium can thus be used over and over again, in the same form and with the same quality, which reduces the need for producing new raw material. In addition, all components of the early Notor luminaires could be dismantled and recycled and/or reused.
The pilot project is one of several sustainability initiatives within Fagerhult’s Circular solutions focus area. Our goal leading up to 2030 is to meet the increased demand for new products and solutions with a long service life and which can be reused or recycled.
“Aluminium is a uniquely durable metal that can be recycled almost endlessly, but like all materials, it needs to be handled responsibly. Together, we were now able to recycle the equivalent of 1,300 kg of aluminium in the pilot project, but the big gain is the insights we will take to future projects.”
Kristian Frisk, Account Manager
Hydro Extrusion Sweden
Do you also think circularly and seek new solutions?
Do you have a project in which you are facing similar issues - or perhaps you just want to know a little more about what we learnt and how we proceeded in the pilot project? Do not hesitate to contact your local sales office for more information. We look forward to hearing from you!