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Co-Creating Circular Solutions: New Circo® material developed in collaboration with Letbek
September 19, 2025 at 07:00 AM
A close collaboration between NG Nordic and its subsidiary Letbek has led to the launch of a new plastic recyclate: Circo® LDPE 1000. This extrusion-grade product made from post-consumer plastic waste marks a first step to what’s possible now with the combined strengths and expanded value chain within NG Nordic group.
Earlier this year, following the merger of two pioneering companies in circular solutions and environmental - Fortum Recycling & Waste and NG Group - NG Nordic was established. Together, with Letbek – a subsidiary specializing in manufacturing of plastic products, the companies initiated the collaboration aiming to develop a high-quality, cost-effective recycled plastics material that could meet Letbek’s manufacturing needs. As an outcome, Circo LDPE 1000 was born. It is a fully recycled, extrusion-grade plastic that’s already making an impact on the construction and infrastructure sectors.
“After testing, we identified the optimal processing parameters and material formulation that meet the needs of our internal customer in terms of both quality and cost,” says Anniina Rasmus, Commercial Manager, NG Nordic.
This collaboration showcases NG Nordic’s strengthened presence across the entire value chain. By combining Circo’s material development expertise with Letbek’s product manufacturing capabilities, NG Nordic is widening its’ capabilities in developing new materials and transforming waste into valuable end-products internally.
“The real recycling of material happens only when it is turned into a new product,” reminds Anniina Rasmus.
Material designed for wide range of applications
Circo LDPE 1000 is suitable for a wide range of extrusion applications, including ground plates and cable covers. It expands Circo LDPE product portfolio beyond blown film applications, allowing NG Nordic to serve a broader customer base.
“This collaboration is extremely important for our Circo business and for the entire NG Nordic,” says Mikko Koivuniemi, Director, Plastics Finland, NG Nordic. “LDPE is one of the main materials used in plastic packaging which we’re recycling, and having an internal client like Letbek, that can convert it into valuable products, is a real achievement.”
Letbek’s perspective: a seamless partnership with a high sustainability impact
From Letbek’s side, the development process was smooth and productive.
“There has been good dialogue throughout,” says Niclas Gärtner, Head of extrusion operations, Letbek. “Our requirements were clear: the material should be relatively free of moisture and impurities. Circo LDPE 1000 met those expectations.”
Letbek has already used Circo LDPE 1000 in ground protection plates sold in Denmark and England, with plans to expand across the EU.
The environmental impact of this collaboration is significant. Producing a ground plate with Circo LDPE 1000 results in just 18.67 kg CO₂e per board, compared to 65.06 kg CO₂e when using virgin LDPE - a savings of 46.4 kg CO₂e per board. This means 71 % reduction to CO₂ emissions.
Circo LDPE 1000 is more than just a new product - it’s a great example of what’s possible when sustainability, innovation, and co-development come together!