European Chemical Industry News & Insights

LyondellBasell Invests in German Recycling Center for Durable Goods

At a glance
  • The Lich recycling center will reach commercial scale by Q4 2024.
  • The center will recycle automotive and appliance plastics into high-quality materials.
  • The project supports LYB's goal to produce 2 million metric tons of recycled polymers annually by 2030.
  • The center employs mechanical recycling to transform end-of-life plastics.

Overview

LyondellBasell is investing in a new closed-loop recycling center in Lich, Germany. This facility aims to transform plastic waste from durable goods into high-quality feedstock, supporting the circular economy and industry sustainability goals.

Capabilities

The center integrates advanced sorting and recycling technologies to process end-of-life automotive and white goods plastics. The materials are stripped of paint, metal, and other additives to produce high-quality recycled feedstock.

Technological Approach

Mechanical recycling is employed to convert plastics like bumpers and trim into materials for the CirculenRecover product range. These recycled materials will be used in demanding applications in the automotive and white goods sectors.

Timeline and Goals

The Lich recycling center is expected to reach commercial scale by the fourth quarter of 2024. This initiative aligns with LyondellBasell's goal to produce and market at least 2 million metric tons of recycled and renewable-based polymers annually by 2030.