Saudi Arabia – Aramco, TotalEnergies, and Sabic have converted plastic waste-derived oil into certified circular polymers in the Middle East and North Africa.
The project, carried out in Saudi Arabia, aims to establish a domestic value chain for advanced plastic recycling, contributing to the solution of end-of-life plastic challenges and promoting sustainability.
The process involved processing plastic pyrolysis oil, also known as plastic waste-derived oil (PDO), at the Satorp refinery in Jubail, Saudi Arabia. The oil was then utilized as a feedstock by Petrokemya, a Sabic affiliate, to produce certified circular polymers. This innovative approach allows the use of non-sorted plastics that are typically difficult to recycle mechanically, enabling the effective utilization of plastic waste.
Achieving ISCC+ certification
A significant milestone in the project was obtaining ISCC+ certification, ensuring transparency and traceability of the recycled origin of feedstock and products. The certification was obtained by three industrial plants involved in the process: Satorp refinery, Aramco’s Ju’aymah NGL Fractionation Plant, and Petrokemya. This certification paves the way for the production of circular materials with a verified and sustainable origin.
The collaborative effort by Aramco, TotalEnergies, and Sabic demonstrates their commitment to developing sustainable products and solutions in the petrochemical sector. The project aligns with their goals of achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions and creating circular solutions for plastic waste. By leveraging existing infrastructure and spare capacity, the aim is to scale up the production of circular products in a cost-effective manner.
Alliance to End Plastic Waste
Sabic and TotalEnergies, as founding members of the Alliance to End Plastic Waste (AEPW), are actively contributing their knowledge and resources to tackle the global waste management challenges associated with plastic. This collaborative effort signifies the importance of collective action in driving sustainable solutions and addressing the environmental impact of plastic waste.
