In a significant stride towards sustainability, Braskem, the world leader in biopolymer production, has increased the capacity of its bio-based ethylene plant by 30 per cent through an $87 million investment. The plant, located in the petrochemical complex of Triunfo, now operates at an impressive 260,000 tons/year, producing ethylene from renewable sugarcane-based ethanol and contributing to carbon neutrality.
The recent expansion, concluded in June, is a response to the surging global demand for eco-friendly products. Braskem’s bio-based ethylene is manufactured using proprietary technology, capturing CO2 from the atmosphere and integrating it into daily use products. This eco-conscious approach has been at the core of the company’s strategy since 2010 when it launched the world’s first bio-based polyethylene production at an industrial scale.
Walmir Soller, O/P VP for Europe and Asia and responsible for Braskem’s I’m green bio-based business globally, emphasized the company’s commitment to sustainable development and innovation. “We want to meet society’s and customers’ demand for products with less impact on the environment,” he stated.
The positive environmental impact of Braskem’s eco-friendly endeavors is staggering. Each ton of plastic resin produced from renewable feedstock removes three tons of CO2 from the atmosphere. Since its inception, the plant has already produced over 1.2 million tons of I’m green bio-based polyethylene. With the recent capacity increase, Braskem estimates removing approximately 185,000 tons of CO2 equivalent per year.
As the go-to supplier for over 250 major brands worldwide, including Allbirds, DUO UK, Natura & Co, and Tetra Pak, Braskem’s bio-based resins are used in diverse products ranging from packaging, bags, toys, housewares, and industrial cables to reusable water bottles and hockey fields. The global portfolio of bio-based resins is exported to more than 30 countries, making a significant impact on reducing the plastic industry’s carbon footprint.
Looking ahead, Braskem is committed to producing one million tons of biopolymers by 2030 and becoming carbon neutral by 2050. The company’s dedication to disruptive innovation and technology, coupled with bold partnerships and digital transformation, fuels its relentless search for sustainable solutions for society and the environment.
In line with its sustainability commitments, Braskem is actively improving the circularity of plastics, promoting human-centric development, and leading the way in bio-based materials. With its pioneering efforts and resolute focus on a greener future, Braskem continues to set the standard for sustainable practices in the industry.