Developed at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem in collaboration with Yissum, Plastic Back's technology is designed to break down challenging plastics such as PVC into reusable petrochemical components. Supported by the BIRD Foundation, the Israel Innovation Authority, and the Ministry of Energy, the initiative seeks to commercialize this recycling solution and integrate it into the U.S. waste management industry.
With global plastic waste surpassing 400 million tons annually and less than 6% being effectively recycled, traditional recycling methods are struggling to keep pace. The Ellen MacArthur Foundation estimates that inefficient plastic waste management leads to an annual economic loss of approximately USD 120 billion. By pioneering advanced chemical recycling techniques, Plastic Back offers an alternative approach that can help mitigate this crisis.
The company's technology, invented by Prof. Yoel Sasson and Dr. Uri Stoin at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, enables the conversion of PVC and other problematic plastics into high-value byproducts such as naphtha-range oils and brine solutions. These materials can be reintegrated into industrial production, reducing the demand for virgin raw materials and supporting a circular economy.
Plastic Back has set an ambitious goal of processing 100,000 tons of plastic waste by 2030. "We see the PVC chemical recycling segment as a major opportunity," said Tal Binder Cohen, CEO of Plastic Back. "The support from the BIRD Foundation enhances our ability to commercialize our solution in the U.S. and close the loop on difficult-to-treat PVC waste streams."
Dror Bin, CEO of the Israel Innovation Authority, emphasized the importance of this project: "BIRD Energy fosters innovative projects through partnerships between leading Israeli and U.S. companies in renewable energy. This collaboration aligns with the global movement investing billions into clean energy solutions."
The company's process removes chlorine from PVC waste and converts it into crude oil-like substances, which can be refined and repurposed in industrial applications. This breakthrough not only addresses plastic pollution but also reduces reliance on fossil fuels by recovering valuable chemical feedstocks from waste streams.
"Our research focuses on transforming plastic waste into valuable resources through a highly efficient chemical process," said Dr. Uri Stoin, co-founder and Vice President of Research and Development at Plastic Back. "By leveraging our scientific expertise and technological advancements, we are creating a scalable solution that can address the global plastic waste crisis and contribute to a truly circular economy."
Through this pioneering approach, Plastic Back is positioning itself as a leader in sustainable plastic waste management. By converting non-recyclable plastics into reusable materials, the company contributes to reducing landfill waste, supporting cleaner industrial practices, and promoting a long-term sustainable future.
Related Links
Plastic Back
Space Technology News - Applications and Research
| Subscribe Free To Our Daily Newsletters |
| Subscribe Free To Our Daily Newsletters |
