Fra kostnadsvalg til klimabidrag
Reduced CO₂ footprint with recycled plastic: Collaboration between Pla-Mek®, Vik Ørsta, Oceanize and the Norwegian Energy Council
Recycled rope is used in technically advanced products and contributes to reduced emissions. In collaboration with Vik Ørsta, Oceanize and Energiråd, Pla-Mek® has developed injection pipes for the CT-bolten® – manufactured with recycled plastic from the aquaculture industry. The solution provides a documented CO₂ saving of over 180 tons.
22.01.2025
A drive for more sustainable production – starting with price
The mission
Back in 2014, Pla-Mek® was commissioned to produce injection pipes for the CT-bolten® for Vik Ørsta – a key component in tunnel protection. The goal was to develop a solution that combined high quality, efficient production, and competitive pricing.
An important step forward in development
In 2018, we took a significant step forward: the process of switching to more sustainable materials began. Initially, rising costs of virgin plastic triggered the desire to explore alternative raw materials. After a year of testing and development, recycled rope from Oceanize was introduced as a new input material.
Strengthened our expertise in recycled plastics
What started as a cost-saving initiative has evolved into a core part of our sustainability strategy. Today, environmental considerations and responsible material choices are just as important as price. This original decision has led to a collaboration that delivers both technical and environmental benefits – and has strengthened our expertise in recycled plastics.
See how we collaborate
Close collaboration and technical refinement of the material
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To produce the injection pipe using recycled material, we selected granules made from discarded ropes from Norway’s fishing and aquaculture industry – supplied by Oceanize. This reduces the CO₂ footprint and gives new life to materials in a value chain where durability and quality remain essential.
The process came with challenges. The ropes had been exposed to UV radiation and wear over time, requiring thorough testing and quality assurance – both at Pla-Mek® and Vik Ørsta.
Collaboration to increase the quality of recycled materials
Testing and quality assurance
Together with Oceanize, we worked to improve the material quality. Their investments in upgraded production equipment and improved sorting routines have paid off. Today, we have achieved a high and stable quality in the recycled granulate – now used in several of Vik Ørsta’s plastic products.
Measurable environmental impact – and broader technical insight
The Energy Council - specific climate savings
The collaboration has resulted in more than just a good product. It has delivered tangible climate benefits: In 2024 alone, we saved 183.2 tons of CO₂ equivalents compared to production using virgin plastic – just from the injection pipe for the CT-bolten®. For comparison, a round-trip flight from Oslo to New York emits approximately 443 kg of CO₂ per passenger.
Strengthened expertise at Pla-Mek®
Beyond reducing emissions, we’ve deepened our understanding of how recycled materials perform in technically demanding applications. We’ve also demonstrated that local recycling – and local production – offer advantages for both the environment and supply chain resilience.
This is a clear example of how a price-driven decision can evolve into sustainable innovation that adds value across the entire value chain.
Recycled material from Oceanize shows how resources can stay in circulation.” Using plastic from the aquaculture industry supports UN Sustainable Development Goals 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and 14 (Life Below Water).
Børge Heggen Johansen
Fagsjef bærekraft og ytre miljø - Energiråd
The CT- bolt is used in tunnel security
Innovation and collaboration as driving forces
This project shows what’s possible when customer needs, technical insight and sustainability come together. At Pla-Mek®, we’re proud to be part of this journey – and it’s precisely these kinds of collaborations that give us value, experience and confidence in the future.