New Laminate Sample Recycling Program Reduces Waste

Interior design is ever changing, and Formica^® Brand products are frequently updated to reflect trends and evolving tastes. The question is what to do with outdated laminate samples once they’re removed from designers’ wallboards, home center stores, and kitchen and bath dealer showrooms.

Historically, leftover samples of discontinued patterns were collected and donated to design schools for student use or given to artists for a variety of projects. However, Formica Group’s new program with TerraCycle focuses on ways to recycle these materials for use in creating other products.

In 2024, our Field Sales teams in the U.S. and Canada tested a new approach to bringing the sample disposal process in line with Formica Group’s dedication to sustainability. Over the past year, reps have been sending discarded countertop and laminate samples, flexible plastic sleeves and cardboard to TerraCycle, an international leader in recycling hard-to-recycle waste streams. 

TerraCycle aggregates these materials and works with industry partners to recycle the waste into raw materials that other manufacturers can use to create their products. It’s an environmental win for all involved!  In fact, the number of samples collected in 2024 far exceeded expectations, and now Formica Group is expanding the program to additional partners. 

The sample recycling pilot program is an important component of Formica Group’s multifaceted sustainability agenda. The company is also pursuing ways to turn manufacturing scraps into energy sources within its plants. Additionally, Formica Group has been leveraging recycled and eco-friendly content in the making of its products for years.  

Learn more about Formica Group’s dedication to sustainability.