A Bridge Made from Labels

The bridge in the photo above was built over the Gardon River in the south of France this summer and was designed by Japanese architect Shigeru Ban. The structure itself is made from recycled cardboard tubes held together by steel joints. But the steps of the bridge is what I find most fascinating. The steps were made from a material call ProFi, which is created from paper and plastic left over from the manufacture of self adhesive labels.

Now you might wander how safe this bridge is? Well apparently the bridge could comfortably withstand a load of 20 people. It was surprisingly easy to assemble - it took a team of architecture students only a month to complete the installation. The only problem with this bridge - the cardboard tubes meant that it was not very durable. The bridge was open to the public for just six weeks until it was dismantled in August before the rainy season.

However, ProFi the new material from UPM, one of the world leaders in the manufacture of label material and paper products, is quite durable. ProFi is being used now to make outdoor decks for patios, playgrounds and pool areas. It is weather proof and highly durable. But if you are looking to buy this new product in the US you will be disappointed. It is currently only available Europe.

The label industry has been slow to embrace sustainability but this new initiative from UPM will hopefully spur new growth in this area. There is a great deal of waste in the manufacture of self adhesive labels and so there is plenty of opportunity for new ideas like UPM ProFi. Here at Lightning Labels we are committed to sustainable practices and we will continue to keep you informed of initiatives like this one.

Comments

[sabina]

I need to know where can I get recycled cardboard tubes, please.