Tesem and Constellium unite to lead the charge in closed-loop aluminium recycling

Tesem leverages the unique qualities of aluminium to fulfil the durability and aesthetic standards set by luxury perfume and cosmetics brands. Collaborating with Constellium, the Spanish group aims to minimize the carbon footprint associated with its production of packaging components.

Nevertheless, the exacting aesthetic demands of the luxury industry do not always align with the characteristics of recycled aluminium. A significant portion of the existing supply originates from lower-grade food packaging, posing challenges in directly applying high-end packaging components.

Tesem has joined forces with Constellium, an aluminium supplier equipped with recycling capabilities in response to this challenge. In this collaborative effort, any aluminium scraps not utilized by Tesem are returned to Constellium, where they undergo re-melting and re-rolling processes. This ensures that the recycled aluminium attains the same performance and visual appeal as its virgin counterpart, meeting the stringent standards required for high-end packaging components.

This groundbreaking solution eliminates the requirement for adhesives or additional plastic elements, producing entirely aluminium components. For example, FUSE can craft a mono-material cap by seamlessly merging two aluminium shells, eliminating the need for a plastic insert.

“Of course, brands will have the final say, but we have hardly any doubt about their willingness to reduce the plastics used in their products. From this perspective, aluminium represents a first-rate alternative, thanks to its aesthetic qualities and its endless recyclability,” said Patrick Bousquel, the newly appointed Marketing and Sales Director of the Catalan group.

Addressing the growing trend towards reducing or eliminating plastics in beauty packaging, Tesem showcased its DOTS technology. Using micro-sized friction points, this innovative approach removes the plastic insert from the aluminium cap.

“We have built a closed loop between our factory and Constellium. We therefore reuse luxury grade aluminium in our products based on a mass balance calculation. This reduces CO2 emissions by up to 70% compared to virgin aluminium,” said Patrick Bousquel.

“Tesem’s approach to aluminium demonstrates our commitment to our customers to meet their needs for beauty packaging combining luxury, innovation and environmental responsibility,” emphasizes Albert Sala, Tesem Group’s CEO.

Beyond its traditional role as a visual and sensory delight, aluminium is a pivotal element for Tesem in navigating the path toward enhanced sustainability. In the world of luxury, where every detail matters, aluminium emerges not just as a material of choice for opulent packaging but as a conscientious companion in the pursuit of a greener future.