Dow boosts recycling capacity with Circulus acquisition

Dow Inc. announced the acquisition of Circulus, a North American polyethylene recycler, significantly advancing its mechanical recycling capabilities. This strategic move aims to bolster Dow’s commitment to sustainable practices and the circular economy.

The acquisition includes Circulus’ two recycling facilities located in Ardmore, Oklahoma, and Arab, Alabama, which together boast an annual capacity of 50,000 metric tons of post-consumer resin (PCR). This addition aligns with Dow’s ambitious 2030 Transform the Waste goal, which aims to convert plastic waste and alternative feedstocks into three million metric tons of circular and renewable solutions annually.

Karen S. Carter, president of Packaging & Specialty Plastics at Dow, highlighted the synergy between Dow’s materials science expertise and Circulus’ film recycling capabilities.

“This acquisition will allow Dow to combine our Company’s industry leading materials science technology with Circulus’ film recycling expertise to accelerate progress towards our 2030 Transform the Waste goal,” said Karen S. Carter, president, Packaging & Specialty Plastics. “It will also expand how we participate in the industry, allowing us to generate value for our customers by directly producing more higher performing circular products that brands and consumers are demanding.”

This collaboration is expected to enhance Dow’s product offerings in various applications, including collation shrink packaging, stretch film liners, and select food packaging.

Industry impact and future prospects

Circulus’ CEO, Mike Dulin, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, emphasising their shared vision for advancing a circular economy. “The Circulus team is excited to move forward with Dow in advancing a circular economy. Our leadership team brings more than 65 years of combined experience in the recycling and plastics industries,” Dulin stated.

“The Circulus team is excited to move forward with Dow in advancing a circular economy. Circulus leverages the best technology available to advance the recycling of plastic packaging waste, Our leadership team brings more than 65 years of combined experience in the recycling and plastics industries, resulting in high quality and sustainably produced resins, suitable for upcycled applications.”

Dow’s commitment to sustainability

This acquisition supports Dow’s broader sustainability efforts, reinforcing its dedication to transforming waste into valuable resources. Dow’s global presence, with manufacturing sites in 31 countries and approximately 35,900 employees, positions it as a leader in the materials science industry, focusing on innovation, sustainability, and customer-centric solutions.