Industry-first bednets made from 100% recycled and upcycled polyester.
As an industry, we distribute over 100,000 tons of plastic polymer-based long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) to the world each year. The disposal of these nets at the end of their life cycle presents an environmental challenge.
Another issue with polymers is their constantly oscillating raw material costs, which put pressure on donor organisations’ budgets.
We believe recycling can be done cost-effectively, and can help keep the costs of raw materials stable.
With this in mind, we have developed and validated the technology that enables us to manufacture industry-first bednets made from 100% recycled and upcycled polyester.
The climate crisis and Social Development Goal 12 demands an urgent and comprehensive approach to protecting fragile ecosystems and vulnerable populations susceptible to the negative effects of global warming. These can include an increase in life-threatening diseases.
Manufacturers are responsible for the product design, responsible disposal and recycling of bednets to ensure minimal harm to the environment.
Protecting our environment and mitigating the damage caused by climate change will lead to greater prosperity for our future generations.
At Vestergaard, we are committed to reducing plastic waste. We recycle old garments and bednets, and we upcycle post-production waste materials into new bednets.
Creating a truly circular economy for bednets will require collaborations with national environment authorities and national malaria programmes in recipient countries.
While manufacturers can play their part in driving innovation and creating technology to facilitate a circular product life, the malaria community has a shared responsibility. Partnership is crucial in ensuring bednets are not prematurely removed or inappropriately disposed of but instead have a second life.