Samsung Electro-Mechanics has successfully created work uniforms made from waste generated during the MLCC manufacturing process and will begin a pilot introduction this month. An effective recycling system has been established to transform manufacturing waste into new resources.
“Recycling” refers to the process of remaking or reusing items that have already been used. In contrast, “upcycling” involves transforming waste into raw materials while adding ideas and designs to create new value.
Samsung Electro-Mechanics uses a large amount of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) film to produce MLCCs. However, unlike regular PET bottles, the thin thickness, process impurities, and coating components of the PET film make it difficult to convert into fibers. To address this technical challenge, Samsung Electro-Mechanics collaborated with a chemical materials specialist company to leverage film processing and fiber production technologies. Since 2022, the Closed-Loop Recycling (CLR) project has focused on converting waste PET film into work uniforms, achieving results after approximately two years.
The upcycled work uniforms have undergone various evaluations, including skin irritation tests, harmful substance inspections, washing rate changes, and combined sunlight and sweat durability tests, all conducted by accredited organizations. In addition, employees participated in a three-month wearability test. Kwak Soogon from Samsung Electro-Mechanics, who participated in the work uniform wearability test, remarked, “It's incredible to make work uniforms from PET film, and I take pride in contributing to the environment through upcycling.” Jo Soyoung from ESG_G emphasized, “The quality, appearance, and comfort of the upcycled work uniforms are identical to those of the existing ones.”
CEO Chang Duckhyun said, “ESG is no longer an option but a necessity for survival,” and urged, “Let’s build a trustworthy, honest company that is recognized in the global market by implementing eco-friendly policies, fulfilling social responsibilities, and establishing a transparent organizational culture for a better future.”
Samsung Electro-Mechanics has produced 300 upcycled work uniforms and will launch a pilot application this month, with plans to switch to all new work uniforms next year.
Additionally, Samsung Electro-Mechanics is striving for ESG management by choosing 3Ps: Efforts for the Environment (Planet), Pursuit of Happiness for Members (People), and Sustainable Growth (Progress) as ESG management keywords in order to practice the ESG mission of “Sustainable Challenges for a Better Planet & Life.”
Samsung Electro-Mechanics' sustainability management activities have been recognized by various rating agencies. It has been recognized as a leading ESG company by being the first company in Korea to be included in the “DJSI World Index” for 15 consecutive years, the first in the industry to be certified by the Carbon Trust for “Carbon Footprint,” and certified for “Zero Waste to Landfill” at all business sites in Korea.