Pyrolysis and the Bigger Picture: Stakeholders and Environmental Benefits – Nov 2023

Introduction
As we’ve explored the intricacies of pyrolysis, we’ve seen its potential to revolutionise plastic recycling. In this final part of our series, we focus on the broader implications of pyrolysis from the perspective of key stakeholders and its environmental impact.

Recyclers’ Perspective
Recyclers stand to gain significantly from pyrolysis, especially when it comes to plastics typically unsuitable for mechanical recycling. Pyrolysis offers a path to reclaim value from flexible and multilayer plastics (MMPP), which represent a substantial portion of packaging waste but have traditionally defied conventional recycling efforts due to their composition.

Producers’ Perspective
From a producer’s standpoint, pyrolysis aligns perfectly with the non-competition with mechanical recycling feedstock. By targeting flexible and multilayer plastics, pyrolysis addresses a significant and growing segment of the waste stream without impeding the recycling of plastics better suited for mechanical processes. This targeted approach underscores pyrolysis’s role in a comprehensive waste management strategy.

Expanding System Boundaries
When we expand the system boundaries to include the lifecycle impacts of plastic waste management, the advantages of pyrolysis become even clearer. Studies show that using as little as 5% pyrolysis oil in new plastic production can cut GHG emissions by up to 23% when compared to traditional methods. When accounting for the current end-of-life practices like incineration, the GHG emission reduction can be even more significant—up to 131% in regions like the EU.

Challenges and Future Outlook
Despite its potential, pyrolysis technology faces challenges, including public perception and the need for broader adoption to maximise its environmental benefits. However, as the technology matures and becomes more efficient, it’s expected to play a crucial role in reducing waste and greenhouse gas emissions, moving us closer to global sustainability goals.

Conclusion
Pyrolysis does not merely offer a technical solution to plastic waste but heralds a shift towards a more sustainable and circular economy. By focusing on plastics that are otherwise non-recyclable, pyrolysis complements existing recycling methods and paves the way for a future where every piece of plastic has the potential to be reused.