- The plant will handle 100,000 tonnes of plastic waste annually.
- It aims to be operational by 2024, creating 100 long-term jobs.
- The facility will use pyrolysis to convert plastic waste into raw materials.
- The project supports 200 jobs during construction and offers training opportunities.
Project Overview
A planning application has been submitted for a new plastics upcycling plant in Sunderland, UK. The facility will handle plastic materials that are not currently recycled in the UK and aims to create 100 long-term jobs.
Location and Technology
The plant is planned for a 12-acre site on the eastern edge of Port of Sunderland. It will be the first of its kind in the UK, using a pyrolysis process to chemically recycle plastic waste into a substitute oil for fossil oil, reducing CO2 emissions by around 50% compared to incineration. This oil can be used to produce new, high-quality products.
Community Engagement
Quantafuel has engaged with the local community through consultation events and leaflets, inviting feedback on the plans. An option agreement with Sunderland City Council gives Quantafuel the first option to develop the land.
Economic Impact
The project is expected to support around 200 jobs during construction and create training and apprenticeship opportunities for the local community. Once operational, the facility will process approximately 100,000 tonnes of low-value plastic waste annually, such as soft food packaging and various domestic and industrial plastics.
Operational Details
The raw materials produced will be shipped from the port to customers in the petrochemical industry, while gas produced during the process will be used to power the plant. The facility aims to be operational by 2024, contributing significantly to the UK's circular economy and reducing reliance on incineration and landfill.
