Carbios constructs world’s first PET biorecycling plant

CARBIOS, a leader in developing biological technologies for transforming plastic and textiles, celebrated the start of construction for the world’s first PET biorecycling plant. Representatives from local authorities, partner brands, and industrial partners joined the event in Longlaville, France, marking a significant step in the fight against plastic pollution.

Located in the Grand-Est region of France, CARBIOS’ plant will focus on enzymatic depolymerization of PET waste, aiming to accelerate the transition to a circular economy for plastic and textiles. The plant will process up to 50,000 tons of prepared waste per year once fully operational, with deliveries to customers expected to begin in 2026.

CARBIOS’ enzymatic biorecycling technology will now be used to recycle PET, a widely used plastic derived from oil. This innovation enables the recycling of previously challenging materials like multilayered and colored packaging trays, as well as polyester textile waste, contributing to France’s leadership in green innovation and sustainable economic development.

Emmanuel Ladent, CEO of CARBIOS, expressed excitement about the groundbreaking, emphasizing the shift towards a circular economy fueled by PET waste. He thanked partner brands and industrial partners for their support, including L’Oréal Groupe, L’Occitane en Provence, PUMA, Suntory Beverage & Food Europe, Salomon, On, CITEO, and Novonesis, for their contributions to this milestone event.