Dow Chemical and P&G will develop a new recycling technology to deal with hard-to-recycle plastic waste

Dow Chemical and P&G announced a joint development agreement (JDA) to create new recycling technologies. Their vision is to be able to efficiently convert hard-to-recycle plastic packaging into recycled polyethylene with near-virgin quality and a low greenhouse gas emissions footprint.

To create the new technology, the two companies will combine their patented technologies and expertise in the dissolution process. The development program will focus on using dissolution technology to recycle a wide range of plastic materials, with a focus on polyethylene, and target post-domestic plastic waste, especially rigid, flexible and multi-layer packaging that is difficult to recycle.

The technology is designed to deliver high-quality post-consumer recycled (PCR) polymers with a lower greenhouse gas emissions footprint than fossil polyethylene. P&G expects to use this PCR polymer in its packaging, creating a circular path that will help maximize resource use and reduce materials considered waste.

"Dow is committed to transforming plastic waste into circular solutions that create the high-quality resins our customers demand while helping to accelerate the circular economy. We are excited to partner with P&G who share similar sustainability goals and commitment to innovation." said Dave Parrillo, vice president, Dow Packaging and Specialty Plastics and Hydrocarbons R&D.

Lee Ellen Drechsler, senior vice president of R&D at P&G, added: "Our partnership with Dow helps P&G advance our goal of expanding industry solutions as we help create a circular future where materials are recycled and remanufactured rather than becoming waste. "