Circular thinking
sustainable doing
At U Plastics, ecology is not just about recycling — it’s at the heart of who we are. Sustainability is embedded in every step of our process: from raw materials to final product, from collaboration to innovation. We are committed to a circular economy, climate action, inclusive employment, and ethical entrepreneurship — all within the framework of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
We are building the future today, with solutions that are not only high-performing but also responsible.
What began as a strong affinity for plastic projects has grown into a mission: striving for Zero Waste. By transforming residual materials into new products, we actively reduce our ecological footprint and strengthen our position in the circular economy.
Environment
We minimize our ecological footprint through energy efficiency, waste reduction, and sustainable production.
Social
We invest in our employees, support local communities, and promote diversity and inclusion.
Governance
We act ethically and transparently, with a long-term vision for sustainable growth and responsible entrepreneurship.
OUR MISSION:
U Plastics is a leading developer and processor of recycled and/or technical plastics, offering fast delivery of high-quality, tailor-made solutions and circular products.
Technical plastics
U Plastics supplies high-performance plastics with unique properties for demanding applications. We advise clients in choosing the right material tailored to their project.
Customization
U Plastics develops custom plastic solutions based on the client’s requirements and applications. From prototype to production, our dedicated team ensures quality, precision, and on-time delivery.
Innovation
U Plastics invests in advanced technologies such as 3D printing, automation, and AI to produce more efficiently, precisely, and sustainably — reinforcing our position in the plastics industry.
Ecological
U Plastics firmly chooses circular solutions through recycling, energy saving, and resource conservation. This limits our ecological footprint and supports a sustainable future aligned with the SDGs.
Our values
Integrity
We act with honesty and transparency toward our customers, employees, and partners.
Respect
We respect the needs and expectations of our customers, employees, communities, and the environment.
Responsibility
We take responsibility for our ecological footprint and aim for customer satisfaction through environmentally conscious and sustainable solutions.
What is the Voka Charter for
Sustainable Entrepreneurship?
The Voka Charter for Sustainable Entrepreneurship (VCDO) is an initiative by Voka, the Flemish network of companies, that supports businesses in implementing and improving sustainable practices.
The charter provides a framework for businesses to take concrete actions to make their operations more sustainable, respecting environmental, social, and governance (ESG) dimensions.
Throughout the VCDO process, the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are linked to the 5 Ps (People, Planet, Prosperity, Peace, and Partnership). This ensures a holistic approach to sustainability.
An action plan is created based on expert screening of all these aspects, including some mandatory criteria. After implementing the actions, a company can become an SDG Pioneer and receive the UN certificate — with the potential to grow into an SDG Champion or even SDG Ambassador, which is indeed an ambition of U Plastics.
At U Plastics, we integrate sustainability into both products and business processes. We do so in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with a special focus on the following:
Circular production & zero waste
U Plastics is actively committed to circular production. We reuse residual materials from our own operations and from clients, locally processing them into new, high-quality plastic products. We work closely with Govaerts Recycling — a market leader in plastic recycling — to extend material life cycles and reduce our ecological footprint.
Responsible consumption & production
Climate action
Goal: reuse all residual flows from our production.
Innovation & future focus
We focus on smart plastic solutions and invest in 3D printing, AI, and material development. For example, we are developing recyclable plastics in collaboration with research institutions and certification partners.
Industry, innovation & infrastructure
Goal:
- Launch a product passport via QR code to provide customers with transparent information on product composition and recyclability.
- Develop our own certified recycled plastic of outstanding quality.
Social and inclusive entrepreneurship
We believe in work for everyone. That’s why we collaborate structurally with Bewel and Arbeidskansen to provide opportunities to people who face employment barriers. We also invest in a safe work environment, growth opportunities, and partnerships with higher education institutions like PXL for internships and training.
Decent work & economic growth
Reducing inequality
Goal:Each year, aim for a 5% increase in assignments to social employment partners.
Climate action & energy management
Our facility in Dilsen-Stokkem features 90 solar panels, EV charging stations, a rainwater reservoir, and permeable paving. By producing locally and optimizing transport, we limit CO₂ emissions. Efficient packaging and delivery bundling help save fuel, space, and materials — reducing both environmental impact and customer costs.
Affordable & sustainable energy
Responsible consumption & production
Climate action
Transparency & partnerships
We don’t pursue sustainability alone. Our strategic partners (such as Initium Group, Igepa Belux, Govaerts Recycling, Cuthings) and networks such as VOKA and POM Limburg strengthen us in terms of knowledge, innovation, distribution, and social engagement. We are committed to open communication — both internally and externally — about our sustainability efforts, goals, and results.
Partnerships for the goals
Goal: Every year, we aim for a 5% growth in the number of assignments we give to social employment partners.
U PLASTICS
Our ambition is to take new steps every year toward a circular and climate-neutral future. We continue to improve our processes, report transparently on our progress, and innovate with sustainable solutions for our clients.
Our
stakeholders
Employees:
The dedicated team at U Plastics that provides expertise in plastic project development, prototyping, and production, and contributes to innovation and customized solutions.
Suppliers:
Companies that supply raw materials and components essential to the production processes at U Plastics.
Customers:
Companies and organizations in sectors such as the food industry, renewable energy, oil and gas, chemical industry, and mechanical engineering that require tailor-made plastic solutions.
Local community, education, and government:
Institutions in and around Dilsen-Stokkem, as well as educational institutions from Hasselt or Diepenbeek, with whom U Plastics collaborates on regulations, internships, and social engagement.
Strategic partners:
Govaerts Recycling:
A leading plastic recycling company that collaborates with U Plastics to strengthen the circular economy.
Cuthings:
A partner specialized in technology and production capacity, contributing to U Plastics’ technological development and production efficiency.
Igepa Belux:
A logistics and sustainable distribution partner that helps optimize the supply chain and reduce the ecological footprint.
Investment partner → Initium Group:
An industrial holding focused on future-oriented companies, investing in the sustainable growth and innovation of U Plastics.
Technical and quality partner → SGS:
As a global leader in inspection, testing, and certification, SGS supports U Plastics with independent material testing. These analyses form the basis of our datasheets and guarantee quality, safety, and compliance with relevant standards and regulations.
Social partners → Bewel + Arbeidskansen:
Support U Plastics with production-related tasks and the employment of people distanced from the labor market. In doing so, we create social value and tailored job opportunities.
Local partner → Distoc:
The local business club of Dilsen-Stokkem that brings entrepreneurs together and organizes activities to strengthen networks and share knowledge. As a small business, U Plastics’ membership in Distoc enables us to better respond to local opportunities and contribute to a strong entrepreneurial climate in the region.
Knowledge and network partners:
POM Limburg:
POM Limburg supports U Plastics as an economic coordinator with a focus on innovation, sustainability, and growth. Through projects and ecosystems, it strengthens U Plastics’ long-term development and position within the Limburg manufacturing industry.
VKW Limburg:
VKW Limburg supports U Plastics through networking events, training programs, and advocacy. As a structural knowledge and network partner, VKW strengthens our business network and facilitates strategic growth and sustainable development.
VOKA Limburg:
U Plastics is a member of Voka Limburg to continuously learn about sustainability, innovation, and entrepreneurship through information sessions, training, and networking events. By directly applying this knowledge, we strengthen our competitiveness, reduce our ecological footprint, and build sustainable partnerships.
TOGETHER
we achieve sustainable growth
We invite you to join us on the path toward a sustainable future. By working together, we can make a positive impact and contribute to a better world — for current and future generations.
Do you have questions or would you like to receive our sustainability report? Feel free to contact us.