Shell Begins Chemical Production Using Recycled Plastic

Shell Begins Chemical Production from Plastic Recycling

Shell has started chemical production from raw materials obtained through recycling of plastics that are difficult to break down in nature using the pyrolysis method. As part of this initiative, Shell aims to use one million tons of plastic waste annually in its chemical production facilities worldwide by 2025. The method known as pyrolysis is considered a breakthrough for recycling plastics that are difficult to decompose in nature. Shell aims to use one million tons of plastic waste annually in its chemical production facilities worldwide by 2025. Thomas Casparie, Vice President General Manager of Shell Global Chemical Products Division, said: "Chemical production from plastic waste is the right step for both the environment and our business. We are creating a cycle in which we take plastic waste that is difficult to recover through conventional methods and convert it back into chemicals. The chemicals we produce will also meet our customers' growing demand for high-quality and sustainable products."   Shell is collaborating with Atlanta-based Nexus Fuels LLC on plastic waste recycling. Nexus Fuels recently sent its first shipment of pyrolysis oil to Shell's chemical facility in Norco, Louisiana, United States, to be used as raw material in the production of everyday items. Shell is working with multiple companies that collect and convert plastic waste to scale this solution to industrial levels in its chemical facilities in Asia, Europe, and North America. Shell is also a founding member of the Alliance to End Plastic Waste (AEPW), established by chemical and plastic producers, consumer goods and retail companies, converters, and waste management firms. This non-profit organization brings together best ideas across the plastic value chain and works in collaboration with financial communities, governments, and civil society. AEPW has committed to investing USD 1.5 billion by 2025 to eliminate plastic waste in nature.