Braskem increases production of bioplastics and aims for 25% portfolio share by 2030

São Paulo-based Braskem, the largest petrochemical company in Latin America, is escalating the production of its circular products that utilize renewable or recycled resources.

Following a 30% capacity increase at its biopolymer (bioplastics) plant in Triunfo, Rio Grande do Sul, the company aims to boost its production of these eco-friendly materials significantly.

Walmir Soller, Braskem’s Vice President of Olefins and Polyolefins for Europe and Asia, outlined the company’s target of generating nearly 25% of their portfolio from circular materials by 2030.

The increased production of “green” ethylene derived from sugarcane ethanol involved an investment of US$87 million.

Braskem’s ability to create such environmentally friendly inputs is garnering significant attention from market players.

The Triunfo plant, which began operation in 2010, now operates at a capacity of 260 thousand tons.

The company is targeting a total production capacity of one million tons of biopolymers by 2030, exploring the possibility of establishing new manufacturing facilities beyond Brazil.

For instance, a Memorandum of Understanding has been signed to build a production unit in Thailand with a capacity of 200,000 tons of biopolymers, with investment approval expected in the next year.

Plans for a biological polypropylene production plant in the United States are also under evaluation.

Soller explained that while bioplastics and fossil fuel-based resins offer similar performance, biopolymers consumers seek a lower carbon footprint.

Braskem’s commitment to sustainable alternatives is responsive to global demands for eco-friendly solutions.

The company’s initiative is in tune with the escalating decarbonization movement worldwide.

Bioplastics present a promising alternative to traditional polymers, with the global market for bioplastics and biopolymers predicted to hit US$17.1 billion by 2025.

More: Brazil news in English, every day from The Rio Times.

This article was produced by The Rio Times’ automated newsroom system. How we use AI · Report an error