Wood, the global consulting and engineering company, has entered into a partnership with ReNew ELP to develop the world’s first commercial-scale plastic recycling plant using an innovative advanced recycling process in the north east of England.
The plant will use HydroPRS™ (Hydrothermal Plastic Recycling Solution) to recycle end-of-life plastic waste into hydrocarbon feedstocks, for use in the manufacture of new plastic products and other materials; diverting plastic away from the natural environment, decoupling plastic manufacture from fossil resource, and reducing CO2 emissions.
Wood will lead on the delivery of engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) solutions for the new facility, with works starting imminently.
Upon commissioning of the first phase, the plant will be capable of processing up to 20,000 tonnes of waste plastic each year, rising to 80,000 tonnes on site completion with an estimated annual saving of 120,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions, when compared with incineration.
Craig Shanaghey, President of Wood’s Operations business across Europe, Middle East and Africa, said: “We are proud to have developed a strong relationship with ReNew ELP in recent months and look forward to continuing our partnership to bring this innovative technology to life.
“On completion, this plant will make it possible to not only reduce the plastic pollution in our natural environment, but will help to reduce both CO2 emissions and the requirement for single-use plastic.
“The circular economy represents a critical and growing industry in our collective quest for a more sustainable future and so I am delighted that ReNew ELP has selected Wood to join them on this journey.”
Richard Daley, Managing Director, ReNew ELP said: “We are delighted to announce our partnership with Wood which marks one of the most significant stages in this vitally important project.
“We will soon see construction start on the plant which will be the first of its kind in the world and, coupled with the Teesside plans announced recently by the Chancellor, makes this a very exciting time for ReNew ELP and its partners. The development of this first site marks a landmark event for the recycling industry and for the environment.”
The project will be delivered by integrated Wood and ReNew ELP teams in Teesside, UK.