Recycling carpets a top priority for manufacturers

It is estimated that 1.6 million tonnes of carpets in Europe are disposed of in landfills. Less than 10% is recycled despite most carpet fibres being capable of reuse.

Though hard surface flooring, such as luxury vinyl tiles, is a dominant style trend, carpets are seen as essential in many homes and offices. Consumers love carpet in their living rooms and bedrooms for its warmth, comfort and acoustic properties.

Some consumers prefer more environmentally-friendly flooring options that are made with less carbon emissions, are easily recycled or contain recycled materials. The carpet industry is developing several initiatives to make carpets more sustainable.

Traditionally made carpets are often latex-coated using a process which is energy-intensive and uses a lot of water. Hot metal coating technology is being used, which requires less energy and produces no wastewater.

Not all worn carpets can be processed to create fibres that make new carpets, but extracted fibres are being used for less intensive uses, such as waste bins and flower pots. Artificial turf for sports grounds is being made from recycled polyethene carpet fibres and carpet backing materials.

In theory, 100% of carpets can be recycled, but the challenge is to organise the collection and sorting op old carpets to achieve a circular carpet economy. Tarkett is a flooring manufacturer that collects worn carpets for recycling.

If you still prefer carpets for your floors, you will find an extensive range at your local carpet retailer in the Chester and North Wales region.