PureCycle moves into European market

US plastics recycler is planning a polypropylene (PP) recycling facility at a ‘circular economy’ hub at the Belgian port of Antwerp-Bruges, the company’s first venture in Europe.

The plant is expected to have an annual capacity of 59 000 tonnes with the potential to expand operations in the future because the site can support up to four processing lines with an anticipated total capacity of 240 000 tonnes per year. PureCycle is currently engaged in feedstock sourcing and financial planning and construction is expected to begin in 2024.  

The facility will be within the NextGen District, a global hub at the port for businesses seeking to advance the circular economy. PureCycle was recently awarded a concessionaire contract during NextGen’s competitive bid selection process.

PureCycle’s recycling process was developed and licensed by Procter & Gamble. Purecycle has commercialised the technology, separating colour, odour and other contaminants from the scrap feedstock to transform it into its Ultra-Pure Recycled (UPR) resin with virgin-like properties. 

Vp of European operations, Wiebe Schippersays the announcement marks the latest phase in PureCycle’s global growth strategy. ‘We are excited to bring our UPR resin to customers in Europe, where companies and policies are at the forefront of the circular economy. Being in the NextGen District will enable us to capitalise on existing efficiencies, collaborate with other innovators in the space and forge new partnerships.’