According to its own figures, the chemical company produced and marketed around 203,000 tonnes of recycled and renewable polymers in 2024.
 

This represents an increase of 65 percent over the previous year, according to a statement from LyondellBasell (LYB). According to the company's latest sustainability report, entitled ‘From Vision to Value’, the group is making progress in implementing its circular economy strategy. LYB markets its circular polymers, which are based on mechanical, chemical and solvent-based recycling and the use of bio-based raw materials, under the ‘Circulen’ brand family. This includes the Circulen Recover product line for mechanically recycled plastics, Circulen Revive for chemically recycled materials for applications such as food and medical packaging, and the Circulen Renew product line based on certified renewable raw materials. Although there is still some way to go to achieve the 2030 target of at least two million tonnes of recycled and renewable polymers, the company expects production volumes to increase once the first commercial plant for chemical recycling of plastic waste based on the group's own Moretec technology, currently under construction at its Cologne site, goes into operation in 2026, the sustainability report continues. The plant is expected to process 50,000 tonnes of plastic waste per year and be powered by renewable energy. In addition, preparations are underway for the construction of a second, larger plant in Houston, Texas. The final investment decision is expected to be made in the first half of 2026. The company also refers to the acquisition of APK AG to expand its portfolio with Newcycling technology for the solvent-based recycling of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) waste.
 
‘At LYB, sustainability is an opportunity to reshape the future and create long-term value,’ explains Peter Vanacker, CEO of LyondellBasell. ‘Our investments in circular and low-carbon solutions, as well as our commitment to safety and operational excellence, will drive our progress toward achieving our 2030 and 2050 goals.’
 
Sources:

• Press release LyondellBasell (15.4.2025)
• Image: © LyondellBasell / Title Sustainability Report