In a significant stride towards sustainable packaging, EcoBlue, a polyolefin and Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) recycler based in Rayong, Thailand, has marked a milestone by expanding its PET recycling capacity. This expansion comes a year and a half after the commencement of operations at its new plant. The company has recently introduced its second Starlinger viscotec solid-state polycondensation (SSP) machine, a crucial addition that enables the production of food-grade Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET). The successful commissioning of this advanced technology in December 2023 has catapulted EcoBlue's annual capacity to an impressive 30,000 tonnes of food-grade recycled PET (rPET).

EcoBlue's strategic expansion aligns with the broader industry shift towards circular economy practices and the reduction of environmental impact. The increased PET recycling capacity not only contributes to addressing plastic waste concerns but also positions EcoBlue as a key player in meeting the rising demand for sustainable packaging solutions.

This development also comes at a pivotal time when PET recyclers in the European region are scaling back their capacities due to challenges related to low prices and profitability. EcoBlue's proactive approach to expanding its production volume serves as a noteworthy contrast, underlining the company's confidence in the growing market for recycled PET.

The rPET resin produced by EcoBlue is slated for use in the manufacturing of beverage bottles, furthering the company's commitment to promoting sustainable practices in the packaging industry. Notably, major brands such as Pepsi and Nestlé made headlines in August 2023 by introducing the first 100% rPET bottles in Thailand. EcoBlue's increased production capacity positions it as a reliable supplier for such initiatives, reinforcing its role in advancing sustainable packaging solutions.

As the demand for eco-friendly packaging materials continues to rise globally, EcoBlue's dedication to meeting the requirements of environmentally conscious customers positions it as a significant contributor to the circular economy. The company's focus on diverting post-consumer and post-industrial waste from landfills underscores its commitment to fostering resource circularity and minimizing the environmental footprint associated with plastic packaging.

EcoBlue's expansion of PET recycling capacity stands as a commendable step towards creating a more sustainable and circular approach to plastic packaging. The utilization of advanced technologies and the commitment to producing food-grade rPET align with the industry's evolving landscape. As EcoBlue emerges as a major player in the recycling sector, its contributions are poised to shape the trajectory of sustainable packaging practices, offering a promising outlook for a more environmentally responsible future.