- Eastman will invest up to $1 billion in a molecular recycling facility in France.
- The facility will recycle 160,000 metric tonnes of plastic waste annually.
- The project includes methanolysis units and polymer lines for specialty applications.
- The plant and innovation center are expected to be operational by 2025.
Investment and Facility Details
Eastman plans to invest up to $1 billion in a molecular recycling facility in France, announced by French President Emmanuel Macron and Eastman CEO Mark Costa. The facility will use Eastman's polyester renewal technology to recycle up to 160,000 metric tonnes of hard-to-recycle plastic waste annually, which is currently incinerated.
Project Scope and Technology
The multi-phase project includes units for preparing mixed plastic waste, a methanolysis unit to depolymerize the waste, and polymer lines to create first-quality materials for specialty, packaging, and textile applications. An innovation center for molecular recycling will also be established to advance alternative recycling methods and applications.
Economic and Environmental Impact
The facility is expected to be operational by 2025, creating approximately 350 direct jobs and 1,500 indirect jobs in recycling, energy, and infrastructure. The project aims to reduce carbon emissions by up to 80% compared to traditional methods, supporting the EU's sustainability goals and reducing the reliance on fossil feedstock.
Support and Collaboration
The project has garnered support from global brands like LVMH Beauty, The Estée Lauder Companies, Clarins, Procter & Gamble, L'Oréal, and Danone, who have signed letters of intent for multiyear supply agreements. The French government and its agency Business France have also supported the project, emphasizing France's leadership in the circular economy and innovative recycling technologies.
