MGM China has introduced a large-scale recycling and upcycling programme for used playing cards at its Macau operations, advancing the casino operator's circular economy commitments through a fully localised, water-free processing system, Focus Gaming News reports.

Developed in partnership with Macau-based technology firm Fnetlink Technology Company Limited, the programme builds on a smart automated card-shredding solution the two companies co-developed in 2023.

The system processes discarded playing cards through an intelligent shredding mechanism before converting the resulting material into high-quality recycled fibres via a dry regeneration technology that requires no water input.

Those fibres are subsequently repurposed into eco-friendly packaging materials, including filler products and recycled boards, creating a closed-loop output from what would otherwise be industrial waste.

Once fully implemented, MGM China said the programme is expected to handle approximately 3,000 tonnes of used playing cards each year, achieving a 100% recycling rate across its Macau properties.

Kenneth Feng, CEO and Executive Director of MGM China Holdings, said: "MGM has always been committed to exploring more efficient and forward-looking sustainability solutions through innovative technology."

A formal launch ceremony was attended by government representatives alongside senior executives from MGM China and Fnetlink Technology.

The initiative reflects a broader push within the gaming industry to embed measurable sustainability outcomes into casino operations. For a sector that routinely cycles through high volumes of single-use playing cards, a scalable upcycling model with no water dependency and full local processing capacity addresses both environmental and supply chain considerations.

Uncover the full details of MGM China's circular economy initiative and its implications for sustainable gaming operations in the complete report.