Chiang Mai: Ichitan Group, in collaboration with GC and several environmental partners, has launched 'Ichitan ReCircle', a groundbreaking closed-loop recycling system aimed at giving endless new life to PET bottles, starting in the Chiang Mai province.
According to Thai News Agency, the project addresses the alarming statistic that 86% of PET bottles end up in landfills, with only 14% being recycled. The 'Ichitan ReCircle' initiative is a concerted effort to eliminate this imbalance by creating a sustainable cycle for PET plastic bottles, ensuring they never reach landfills. This major collaboration includes PTT Global Chemical Public Company Limited, GC YOUturn, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Chiang Mai Office, and One Nimman Chiang Mai. The shared vision focuses on reducing greenhouse gases and global warming, ultimately contributing to a cleaner Thai society.
Tan Passakorntee, CEO of Ichitan Group Public Company Limited, explained that 'Ichitan ReCircle' is not just about recycling but establishing a comprehensive PET plastic bottle management system. The process includes collecting, sorting, sterilizing, and transforming bottles into new products, all while maintaining high plastic quality using modern technology. This closed-loop system allows the bottles to be reused indefinitely, unlike the Open Loop system where plastic quality degrades over time, eventually leading to landfill disposal.
The project has launched a pilot in Chiang Mai, a popular tourist destination known for its commitment to sustainable tourism. This effort is supported by PTT Global Chemical Public Company Limited through the GC YOUturn project, the TAT Chiang Mai Office, and One Nimman Chiang Mai. Together, they have established the first 'Ichitan ReCircle' point in the Wualai Walking Street area, aligning with Chiang Mai's Green Tourism policy.
Ichitan aims to expand the 'Ichitan ReCircle' initiative to collect and process up to 9,000 tons of plastic annually by 2027. Additionally, the One ChiChan area, a concert venue with a 5,000-seat capacity, has been developed into a sustainable space. Concertgoers are encouraged to bring back water bottles to be recycled in the Ichitan ReCircle system. The initiative also features 'Melt Man', a mascot promoting sustainable consumption through storytelling and projection mapping.
Mr. Kitchai Chalermsuksan, Senior Vice President at PTT Global Chemical Public Company Limited, highlighted the technological advancements that allow PET bottles to be transformed sustainably. GC's focus on the circular economy and resource efficiency has led to the development of the 'GC YOUturn Platform', which plays a vital role in the Ichitan ReCircle project.
Ms. Phatsarin Sawetrat, Director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Chiang Mai Office, emphasized Chiang Mai's readiness to be a model city for sustainable tourism. With rich natural resources and cultural strength, the city is poised to transform tourist spots into environmental learning areas, encouraging tourists to engage in responsible and eco-friendly travel.
By participating in 'Ichitan ReCircle', individuals can contribute to a cleaner world, ensuring that every discarded PET bottle reduces pollution and global warming, keeping skies clearer and oceans healthier.