Versalis, a subsidiary of Eni and a prominent player in the chemical industry, has embarked on the construction of a demonstration plant located in Mantua, Italy. The primary objective of this facility is to advance their proprietary technology known as "Hoop," designed for the chemical recycling of mixed plastic waste. Hoop is the result of a collaborative effort with the Italian engineering company, S.R.S. (Research and Development Services), and it represents a groundbreaking initiative aimed at complementing traditional mechanical recycling processes. This innovative technology is geared towards transforming mixed plastic waste into valuable raw materials, subsequently enabling the production of new virgin polymers.

The inception of the Hoop project can be traced back to 2020 when Versalis forged a strategic partnership with Corepla, the National Consortium for the Collection, Recycling, and Recovery of Plastic Packaging. This partnership was established with the intent of adding substantial value to post-consumer plastics that are gathered through national recycling initiatives.

The construction of the demo plant in Mantua, Italy, is a significant step in the development and deployment of the Hoop technology. The location, strategically chosen in Italy, serves as a hub for innovation and serves as a testament to the commitment of Versalis and its partners to drive change in the plastic recycling industry. This facility will serve as a proving ground for the Hoop technology, allowing it to be tested, refined, and scaled up to meet the growing demand for sustainable solutions in plastic waste management.

The collaboration with Corepla is instrumental in this endeavor, as it facilitates the sourcing of post-consumer plastics from national recycling collection efforts. By harnessing the vast potential of these plastics, Versalis and its partners are contributing to a more sustainable and circular economy, where plastics are no longer seen as single-use disposables but as valuable resources that can be perpetually recycled and reused.

The choice of Mantua, Italy, as the location for the demo plant is not arbitrary. Italy has a rich tradition of innovation and is known for its commitment to sustainability. The facility in Mantua serves as a testament to the synergy between technological advancement and environmental consciousness. By establishing the demo plant in this region, Versalis and its partners are not only making a significant contribution to the local economy but also setting an example for sustainable development on a global scale.

The construction of the demo plant signifies a pivotal moment in the journey towards a circular economy, where the environmental impact of plastic waste is minimized, and the economic value of plastics is maximized. This project aligns with the broader global goals of reducing plastic pollution, conserving resources, and promoting responsible consumption and production.