Pyrolysis is a process in which plastic waste is broken down at high temperatures into gas, which then condenses into different types of oil. “It is a clean process with no emissions, leaving only minimal residues,” says Simon Hansford, CEO of Itero. The oil produced is suitable for use in chemical plants, such as those operated by companies in the region.
The facility targets hard-to-recycle waste that is often incinerated. “We are demonstrating here that large-scale processing of contaminated and diverse plastic waste is not only possible but also sustainable,” Hansford explains.
Remarkable initiative
Itero’s initiative is remarkable at a time when many plastic recycling companies are struggling due to low virgin plastic prices on the global market. Hansford remains optimistic: “Europe has the resources, technology, and market to make the transition to circularity.” He hopes stricter regulations and incentive measures will further accelerate the transition.
According to Itero, the choice of Geleen is strategic. “We were looking for a location with a strong focus on circularity, sufficient plastic waste, and proximity to a chemical cluster. The Brightlands Chemelot Campus offers this unique combination,” Hansford states. The Brightlands network also provided support with permits and subsidies.
European Funding
The pilot plant is partially funded by a €5 million subsidy from the European Transition Fund, supplemented by €200,000 from the Netherlands Enterprise Agency and a €5 million investment from Infinity Recycling’s Circular Plastics Fund. Itero also received support from the consultancy firm Innovencio, based on the campus.
In the future, scaling up is possible by adding more modules, allowing for a capacity of over 100,000 tons per year. The Geleen plant is expected to be operational by the end of 2026.
For more information, visit Itero’s website.
Image: Aerovista Luchtfotografie/Shutterstock
