December 17, 2024 – Emirates Biotech Partners with Sulzer for Groundbreaking PLA Production Facility in UAE
In a significant move towards sustainable plastics production, Emirates Biotech has announced the selection of Swiss company Sulzer as its technology partner for an upcoming polylactic acid (PLA) manufacturing plant in the United Arab Emirates. With a total investment of approximately $800 million (equivalent to 5.8 billion Chinese yuan), the facility will be developed in phases, each with a production capacity of 80,000 tons per annum, ultimately reaching a total capacity of 160,000 tons annually upon completion. This positions it to become one of the world’s largest PLA production facilities.
The plant is dedicated to producing this bioplastic material, which serves as a viable alternative to traditional plastics, holding immense importance for addressing plastic pollution and combating climate change regionally and globally. It is estimated that the factory’s production capacity could replace around 3.2 billion plastic bottles and potentially reduce over 300,000 tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually. This project not only elevates the UAE’s standing in the bioplastics sector but also contributes positively to the global environmental protection efforts.
Emirates Biotech will leverage Sulzer’s patented PLA technology, enabling comprehensive management from lactide production and purification to polymerization. This innovative technology allows for the efficient utilization of plant-based raw materials to produce high-quality PLA bioplastics on a large scale. Sulzer, with over two centuries of industry experience and a proven track record in bioplastics, has already seen its PLA patents applied in multiple PLA factories worldwide. This collaboration underscores Sulzer’s leadership in global industrial circular manufacturing and reinforces its commitment to supporting sustainable development initiatives.
Located within the UAE, the factory is scheduled to break ground in 2025 and is anticipated to commence operations by early 2028. It will utilize lactic acid (LA) as the feedstock for PLA production, promoting a low-carbon footprint and biodegradable alternative that bolsters the circular economy. Commenting on the project, Shaikh Suhail Ali Saeed Rashed Al-Maktoum, a major shareholder of Emirates Biotech, stated, “We are committed to sustainability and economic diversification. By introducing innovative technologies and forming strategic partnerships, we aim to position the UAE as a global leader in the production of eco-friendly materials.”
As the world increasingly prioritizes environmental protection and sustainable development, the demand for PLA as a sustainable substitute for traditional plastics continues to grow. The partnership between Emirates Biotech and Sulzer is poised to inject new energy into the global bioplastics industry, steering it towards a greener and low-carbon future.