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World’s first biodegradable plastic produced from CO2 emissions in Finland

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ESPOO, Finland, Oct. 15, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Fortum Recycling & Waste, a leading waste management and circular solutions company from Finland, has succeeded in producing biodegradable plastic from carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from waste incineration at its plant in Riihimäki, Finland. This breakthrough, based on carbon capture and utilization (CCU), is a significant step towards reducing and utilizing industrial carbon dioxide emissions. 

According to Tony Rehn, Head of the Carbon2x program, the production of CO2-based plastic provides a new, sustainable raw material for the plastics industry. 

“I am very proud that our team is the first in the world to successfully produce biodegradable plastic entirely from carbon dioxide emissions. This breakthrough is a significant step towards more sustainable plastic production. This kind of development work helps to reduce dependence on fossil-based raw materials and can create new circular economy-based business,” Rehn explains. 

Similar carbon capture development projects are underway in several industrial sectors in Finland and globally, but the majority of them focus on the production of synthetic fuels and carbon capture and storage (CCS). 

“Captured carbon dioxide should be utilized as a new raw material instead of storing it underground or releasing it into the atmosphere when using fuel. Utilizing captured CO2 is a much more sustainable option in terms of tackling resource scarcity in the future. Whereas carbon capture and storage is a linear solution that does not address the growing material shortage, carbon capture and utilization promotes circular economy,” says Rehn. 

Fortum Recycling & Waste’s Carbon2x program piloted carbon capture and utilization in 2022. The program aims to capture carbon dioxide emissions from the incineration of non-recyclable waste and use them to produce sustainable products, such as biodegradable plastic. 

Plastic is a superior material due to its versatility 

Every year, Europe generates nearly 100 million tons of non-recyclable waste that is incinerated and utilized in energy production. According to Rehn, the wider implementation of the Carbon2x program’s innovation would mean that up to 90% of the CO2 emissions released into the atmosphere from waste incineration could be captured and bound into products. 

Lightweight, durable, and easily modifiable, plastic today is an indispensable material in, for example, food packaging and consumer product manufacturing. According to Rehn, new sustainable solutions are needed for plastic production to complement recycled and bio-based plastics. Biodegradable, CO2-based plastic offers a significant alternative to the market because it has the same qualitative properties as traditional, fossil-based virgin plastics. 

“We want to promote the circulation of materials comprehensively. We believe that a whole new category of sustainable plastics is emerging from products such as ours, even though the mechanical recycling of plastics is still needed,” Rehn clarifies. 

Biodegradable, CO2-based plastic can be recycled just like many other plastics, closing the carbon cycle. An additional advantage of biodegradable plastic is that even if it would end up in nature by accident, it decomposes and does not leave harmful microplastics in the environment. 

According to Rehn, the Carbon2x program’s innovation is hoped to provide solutions not only for material production for food and cosmetics packaging, but also for other sectors such as toys and home electronics. 

Rehn estimates that at this rate of development, the industrial production of biodegradable plastic made from waste incineration’s CO2 emissions could start as early as the end of the decade. The new “plastics born from CO2” brand will be introduced to the European market in November 2024. 

Background Information 

Carbon Capture. Carbon capture (CCS and CCU) refers to technologies that remove carbon dioxide from industrial flue gases. Using capture technologies, the carbon dioxide generated in processes is captured before it is released with the exhaust gases. Currently, various research and development organizations have most commonly presented options for storing captured carbon dioxide, for example, under the seabed. However, the Carbon2x program believes that a more environmentally friendly and, in terms of resource scarcity, a better solution is to utilize captured carbon dioxide as new materials instead of storing it. This can reduce the use of fossil raw materials and return carbon to the material cycle. 

Carbon Capture (CC) refers to the separation of captured carbon dioxide from the flue and exhaust gases of power plants or industrial processes, or alternatively directly from the atmosphere. 

Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) refers to the long-term storage of captured and separated carbon dioxide underground or under the seabed. 

Carbon Capture and Utilization (CCU), on the other hand, aims to convert captured carbon dioxide into various end products, such as fuels, chemicals, or materials. 

Biodegradable plastics are materials that completely decompose into carbon dioxide and water in nature through the action of naturally occurring microorganisms, such as bacteria, fungi, or algae. 

Tony Rehn, Head of the Carbon2x program 
Email: tony.rehn@fortum.com
Tel: +358 40 4855 857 

Heli Poikonen, Communications and Marketing Director
Email: heli.poikonen@fortum.com
Tel: +358 50 3794 119 

More information about the Carbon2x project: https://fortum.com/carbon2x

More information on CO2-based plastics: https://plasticsbornfromco2.com/

Carbon2x. The goal of Fortum Recycling & Waste’s Carbon2x concept, launched in April 2022, is to recycle otherwise non-recyclable waste by capturing the carbon dioxide emissions generated from its incineration and returning the carbon dioxide to the material cycle as high-quality plastics. The pilot project utilizing carbon dioxide generated from waste incineration is the first of its kind in the world. The pilot is being implemented at Fortum’s plant in Riihimäki, Finland. The first products of the Carbon2x program are expected to reach the market within this decade. 

Fortum Recycling & Waste  
Fortum Recycling & Waste is Rethinking Recycling and leading the way towards revolution of materials. Solving problems is in our DNA and our mission is to transform waste streams back to essential raw materials. Our role is to find solutions for our customers’ environmental and waste challenges to enable circularity of materials.  

Fortum Recycling & Waste operates in the Nordics, offering environmentally friendly waste management and hazardous waste treatment. Additionally, we provide recycling services for materials – including solutions for plastics, metals, as well as ash and slag residues. We employ approximately 900 people. 

Fortum Recycling & Waste has recently been acquired by Summa Equity through its portfolio company NG Group. The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions and is expected to be completed in the fourth quarter of 2024.  

Read more on Fortum Recycling & Waste in here: Fortum Recycling & Waste | Fortum

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

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Press Release 15 Oct 2024 World’s first biodegradable plastic produced from CO2 emissions in Finland

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Biodegradable plastic sample

 

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Travelport Releases Second Annual State of Modern Retailing Report: ‘Travel’s Tipping Point’

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New proprietary research from Travelport, combined with cross-industry insights, highlights key trends that will transform the travel industry in 2025

LANGLEY, United Kingdom, Jan. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Travelport, a global technology company that powers travel bookings for hundreds of thousands of travel agencies and suppliers worldwide, today unveiled its 2025 State of Modern Retailing Report. This report, combining new proprietary research and cross-industry insights, outlines critical trends reshaping the travel industry in 2025, including heightened demand for transparency, the emergence of new subscription models, and AI-driven advancements in the travel retail experience.

“Consumers are clear about what they want from the travel industry: simplicity, transparency, and trust,” said Jen Catto, Chief Marketing and Product Officer at Travelport. “Our latest research shows that travel has reached a tipping point. Modern retailers who embrace radical transparency, adopt AI responsibly, and deliver streamlined experiences will thrive in this evolving landscape.”

Five Key Trends to Watch in 2025:

Consumer-washing ends; Radical transparency begins
Travel companies face growing criticism for “consumer washing,” a practice where businesses advertise deceptively low prices, hiding fees or conditions until checkout. Nearly half (44%) of surveyed consumers ranked airlines, hotels, and travel companies as major offenders, second only to credit card companies (45%).

Modern retailing requires honesty at every stage of the customer journey. Brands that eliminate hidden fees and agencies that present clear, comparable options across suppliers will earn customer loyalty. Radical transparency is not just a necessity—it’s a competitive advantage.

Disruptors Delivering Simplicity Will Outpace the Laggards
Fintech disruptors have reshaped banking, with 47% of consumers agreeing they’ve made personal finances easier to manage. However, the travel industry lags behind. Over half of consumers (56%) report that airline offers have become more confusing over the past decade.

To match fintech’s success, travel brands must embrace agile, API-led technology that enables seamless integration of new content, data, and features. Those who simplify the shopping experience will stand out in a crowded market.

Distribution Partnerships Drive Consumer Growth
The overwhelming number of content options across industries has led to choice overload. In streaming services, for example, 56% of consumers feel overwhelmed by the amount of content available on traditional and streaming channels, and 75% would prefer one bundled subscription.

Travel is no different. Forward-thinking companies are forming unconventional partnerships to meet consumers where they shop. For example, low-cost carriers (LCCs) are opening up their content to travel retailers, recognizing that a multi-channel approach simplifies the consumer experience while driving loyalty.

Travel Subscriptions Gain Traction
Travelers are increasingly turning to subscriptions. Online travel agencies (OTAs) like eDreams ODIGEO have demonstrated the potential of this approach, boasting more than 6.5 million Prime subscribers. Its subscription model is currently the company’s largest contributor of revenues and margins.

1 in 3 consumers (35%) surveyed said that they would consider a travel subscription in 2025, highlighting that this business model is primed for growth. Benefits such as convenience, cost savings, and exclusive perks make subscriptions a compelling alternative to traditional loyalty programs.

AI Raises the Bar for Travel Retailing
AI adoption is accelerating, with 58% of people using AI in their personal or professional lives. Travel ranks in top three industries for AI trust, with 42% of consumers trusting travel brands to use AI responsibly. In fact, 80% of frequent travelers already feel comfortable using AI for trip planning.

AI-driven tools will revolutionize travel retailing in 2025, from predicting travel behavior to curating personalized offers. For agencies, AI will simplify managing multi-source content and enable more effective customer service and upselling.

To read the full report or to learn more about Travelport, please visit Travelport.com/Trends-2025.

About Travelport
Travelport is a global technology company that powers bookings for hundreds of thousands of travel suppliers worldwide. Buyers and sellers of travel are connected by the company’s next generation marketplace, Travelport+, which simplifies how brands connect, upgrades how travel is sold, and enables modern digital retailing. Headquartered in the United Kingdom and operating in more than 165 countries around the world, Travelport is focused on driving innovation that simplifies the complex travel ecosystem.

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HONGQI Showcases Flagship Electric Vehicles at the Brussels Motor Show 2025

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BRUSSELS, Jan. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — HONGQI, the benchmark of China’s luxury automotive industry, proudly unveils its flagship electric vehicle lineup at the Brussels Motor Show 2025, held from January 10 to 19 at the Brussels Expo. The event gathers leading automotive brands from around the globe, offering a platform to showcase cutting-edge technologies and sustainable innovation. HONGQI’s E-HS9, EH7, and EHS7 take centre stage, highlighting the brand’s excellence in design, performance, and forward-looking technology.

The E-HS9, a full-size smart electric SUV, embodies spaciousness and refinement. Its dual-motor all-wheel-drive system and high-performance battery deliver exceptional power and stability. The cabin, designed with premium materials, ensures both comfort and elegance, making it a perfect choice for executives and families alike.

The EH7 is designed to meet the expectations of discerning customers in the premium upper mid-sized electric sedan. With a WLTP range of 655 km, it excels in delivering long-distance comfort. Its powerful drivetrain, producing 455 kW and 756 Nm of torque, enables acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.5 seconds, offering an exhilarating driving experience while maintaining efficiency. For those who value a combination of high performance and extended range, the EH7 is an irresistible choice.

The EHS7 is a premium upper mid-sized electric SUV that offers powerful driving performance and smooth handling. Its advanced braking system achieves a stopping distance of just 36 meters from 100 km/h, ensuring precise control and safety. As the only vehicle in its class equipped with rear-wheel steering, the EHS7 delivers exceptional agility and handling. Equipped with IPX8 waterproof battery safety features, it guarantees stable performance across various environments. With ultra-fast charging capabilities and outstanding manoeuvrability, the EHS7 is the ideal choice for drivers who prioritise practicality and superior driving dynamics.

In 2024, HONGQI captivated audiences with appearances at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, Automechanika Frankfurt, and the Paris Motor Show. Each event highlighted the unique features of the E-HS9, EH7, and EHS7, demonstrating HONGQI’s global commitment to luxury EV innovation.

The HONGQI booth at the Brussels Motor Show 2025 offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the flagship models E-HS9, EH7, and EHS7 up close. Attendees can explore these models firsthand, discovering HONGQI’s dedication to luxury design, new energy innovation, and cutting-edge technology. The exhibit highlights the HONGQI’s continuous efforts to advance electric mobility and enhance premium driving experiences on a global scale.

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Start the New Year Right: Corra Group Highlights the Importance of Background Checks as Businesses Start the New Year Strong

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Background Checks Are Essential for Organizations Seeking to Build Trusted Teams and Create Safe Work Environments.

EL SEGUNDO, Calif., Jan. 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The start of the new year is peak season for hiring, and businesses are gearing up to tackle early-year demands for a thriving 2025. Corra Group, a nationwide provider of background checks and drug testing, highlights the critical role of background screening at the start of the new year.

“January and February are typically active months for hiring, as companies bring on new employees to drive business growth and address early-year needs,” said Nick Gustavson, Corra Group Cofounder. “Background checks not only protect a company’s reputation and provide a safe work environment, but also foster a culture of safety, compliance, and reliability for teams and customers.”

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor, the U.S. economy added over 350,000 jobs last January, significantly surpassing forecasts. Failing to perform comprehensive background checks can lead to increased risk and turnover, costing companies time and resources. Corra Group’s streamlined background check services help companies hire with confidence, starting the year with safe, dependable, and qualified teams.

Background checks are especially important for New Year hiring, particularly after the holiday season. It is easy to move too quickly as the new year ramps up, and the post-holiday season is a great opportunity for employers to utilize background checks to reduce turnover costs, transition temporary holiday hires into permanent roles, and stay safe while expanding.

“January also typically brings the launch of hiring initiatives, restructuring, and expansion,” adds Gustavson. “This results in increased hiring and a need for integrity, professionalism, culture fit, and alignment with company values in new or expanded roles.”

2025 is also seeing many companies implementing stricter full-time Return To Office (RTO) mandates, a trend already underway at major organizations like Amazon, JPMorgan, Disney, Google, Boeing, and Apple. With employees transitioning from remote work to working full-time side by side in physical office spaces, businesses need to prioritize safety, trust, and a secure work environment. Corra Group offers a number of background check services including Criminal Checks, Nationwide Registered Sex Offender Search, Drug Testing & Alcohol ScreeningMotor Vehicle Records, Employment Verification and Social Media Background Screening.

“We hope everyone starts the new year right,” said Gustavson. “Stay safe and compliant, and we wish everyone a Happy New Year!”

About Corra Group:

Corra Group is a full-service background screening company that provides background checks and employment screening to clients throughout the United States and around the world. With over 20 years of experience, Corra Group’s goal is to help clients make informed decisions and provide a first-class candidate experience during the hiring process. It is also one of the few companies that will answer the phone. Corra Group is headquartered in El Segundo, California. To learn more, visit CorraGroup.com

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SOURCE Corra Group

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