#Germany #Sonopress #Indorama Ventures #EcoRecord® #Guetersloh

Sonopress Unveils EcoRecord®: A Sustainable Leap in LP Production

In an impressive move towards sustainability in the music industry, Sonopress has begun the production of EcoRecord®, the world’s first long-playing record made from recyclable PET. This milestone signifies not only innovation in the realm of music manufacturing but also marks an alignment with broader environmental goals.

Collaborators in Sustainability

The launch of EcoRecord® in the U.S. follows its successful debut in Europe, featuring albums from renowned artists like Liam Gallagher and Ed Sheeran. Sonopress worked in close partnership with Indorama Ventures, a leading sustainable chemicals company, which supplied a special kind of PET resin crucial for high-quality audio performance. This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to reducing the ecological footprint while maintaining top-notch sound fidelity.

Reducing Carbon Footprint

EcoRecord® is designed with sustainability at its core. By eliminating the need for natural gas and steam in its production process, the EcoRecord® reduces CO₂ emissions by up to 85% when compared to the conventional PVC vinyl records. This represents a groundbreaking shift towards eco-friendly practices in manufacturing. A recent survey indicated that 69% of vinyl enthusiasts are eager to purchase more sustainably produced records, with 77% willing to pay extra for eco-conscious options.

Commitment to Quality and Performance

“It’s our goal to lead the music industry by providing sustainable alternatives without compromising audio quality,” stated Sven Deutschmann, CEO of Sonopress. The engineering of EcoRecord® is a testament to this promise, leveraging advanced high-pressure injection molding technology developed specifically for optical media. By adopting materials like Indorama's specialty PET resin, EcoRecord® ensures audio clarity, mechanical strength, and the necessary moldability for top-tier performance.

Local Solutions for Global Impact

Sonopress strategically partnered with Indorama Ventures not only due to their innovative materials but also their strong local and global presence. By implementing a local sourcing model, the collaboration aims to further minimize transportation emissions, contributing to the overall reduction of the carbon footprint. Marc Potemans, Head of Specialty Chemicals at Indorama Ventures, expressed pride in supporting Sonopress's vision for a sustainable future in the music industry while showcasing the versatility of their innovative materials in novel applications.

Market Expansion and Future Potential

Sonopress plans to kick off EcoRecord® production at an estimated capacity of around one million units per year in the U.S. With growing consumer demand for sustainable products, CEO Deutschmann is optimistic about the potential for rapid scaling of production. This strategy aligns not only with increasing environmental awareness across various industries but also indicates a promising future for sustainable music formats.

About the Companies

Sonopress is a well-established player in international media services, offering extensive solutions across home entertainment, video gaming, publishing, and broadcasting sectors. Recently, they have expanded into fully integrated LP production, showcasing their adaptability to market shifts. On the other hand, Indorama Ventures, with a vast global footprint, is recognized for its leadership in the petrochemicals sector, consistently focusing on sustainability and innovation.

As EcoRecord® makes its debut in the market, it encapsulates a significant evolution in eco-friendly music production, setting a benchmark for the industry to follow. By merging quality sound with responsible manufacturing, Sonopress and Indorama are not just setting trends; they are leading a movement towards an environmentally-conscious future in the world of music.