If you’d told me on my first day as an apprentice at IPL Brightgreen that I’d one day be sitting on the senior leadership team, I probably would’ve laughed. Back then, I was just trying to learn the difference between PP and HDPE without looking like I was in over my head.
But looking back now, that journey mirrors the evolution of polypropylene recycling itself. What started as a small, specialised part of our operation has grown into one of the most exciting, versatile, and fast-moving areas of the business. And that growth is exactly why we’re now able to support more industries than ever before.
“PP used to be a challenge. Now it’s an opportunity.”
When I first joined the company, polypropylene was often seen as the tricky cousin of the plastics world. It was everywhere, buckets, crates, pots, trays, automotive parts, but not everyone knew what to do with it. Many manufacturers didn’t realise how recyclable it was, or how valuable it could become when processed correctly.
Over the years, I watched our team invest in new technology, refine our processes, and build partnerships that helped us unlock the true potential of PP. What once felt like a difficult material is now one of the most in-demand recyclates we handle.
And honestly, that shift has been one of the most rewarding parts of my career.
Innovation has opened new doors for our customers and for us
As our capabilities grew, so did the possibilities.
Better sorting. Better washing. Better reprocessing.
We’ve invested in equipment and expertise that allow us to handle PP in forms that used to be considered “too difficult” or “too contaminated.” Today, we can take:
- Production scrap
- Moulding rejects
- Pots, tubs, and trays
- Industrial components
- Rigid packaging
- End-of-life products
…and turn them into high-quality recycled polypropylene that feeds straight back into UK manufacturing.
More consistency = more confidence
Manufacturers want reliability. They want to know that the recycled PP they’re buying will perform the same way every time. Our improved processes mean we can offer exactly that consistent, traceable, high-quality material that meets the standards of even the most demanding sectors.
Supporting more industries than ever before
One of the biggest changes I’ve seen over my career is the sheer range of industries now turning to recycled PP.
When I started, it was mostly packaging and basic moulding applications. Today, we’re supporting:
- Automotive
- Construction
- Agriculture
- Retail and consumer goods
- Logistics and warehousing
- Manufacturing of reusable products
The appetite for recycled polypropylene has exploded, and because we’ve grown with it, we’re in the perfect position to help.
A circular future built on collaboration
What I love most about working at IPL Brightgreen is that we don’t just recycle materials, we build relationships. We work with manufacturers, retailers, waste managers, and processors who genuinely want to make a difference.
And PP is at the heart of that mission.
Every tonne we recycle reduces the need for virgin plastic. Every new customer we support strengthens the circular economy. Every innovation we introduce creates new opportunities for the UK industry.
Looking back, and looking forward
From apprentice to senior leadership, I’ve seen firsthand how much can change when a team believes in progress. Polypropylene has gone from a misunderstood material to a cornerstone of sustainable manufacturing, and we’re only just getting started.
If your business produces PP waste or wants to source high-quality recycled polypropylene, we’d love to help you be part of this next chapter.
Because growth isn’t just something we’ve experienced, it’s something we’re building, one recycled pellet at a time.
Join Us in Making Recycled the New Normal
Whether you’re a manufacturer looking to reduce your carbon footprint, a brand aiming to boost recycled content, or simply someone who cares about where materials come from, we’d love to work with you.
Nicola.taylor@iplschoeller.com Emma.varneylong@iplschoeller.com