Guangdong launches world-first 200,000-ton plastic recycling plant using innovative one-step technology, advancing green economy and reducing oil dependency.
Guangdong province has launched a groundbreaking milestone in global recycling technology with the trial production of the world’s first industrial plant capable of processing 200,000 tons of mixed scrap plastics annually through deep catalytic cracking. Located in Jieyang city, this pioneering facility signifies a major leap forward in chemical recycling, enabling the conversion of low-value plastic waste into high-value chemical raw materials through an innovative single-step process.
Wang Shaole, deputy Party secretary of Jieyang, highlighted that this project integrates the world’s first chemical recycling process technology with fully integrated equipment. The method allows for the direct transformation of various unsorted and mixed plastic waste into high-value outputs without the need for pre-sorting or pre-processing. “This ‘one-step’ catalytic cracking approach directly tackles plastic pollution by promoting efficient and high-value recycling and utilization,” Wang stated during a news conference.
He emphasized the broader implications of the plant, which include supporting China’s strategic move to reduce dependence on imported crude oil. Wang expressed confidence that the project will contribute “Guangdong’s wisdom and a Chinese solution” to global efforts in advancing green, circular economic models. As the plant scales up operations, its broader implementation is expected to significantly impact not only regional but also international environmental and industrial practices.
The successful trial run of the facility marks a major achievement for Jieyang, reinforcing the city's commitment to creating a favorable environment for investment and innovation. Wang noted that this development will bolster the city's industrial modernization and serve as a blueprint for attracting more large-scale projects. To support future growth, the Jieyang government is committed to facilitating the construction of the project’s Phase II and III expansions, which aim to handle and repurpose over three million tons of plastic waste annually.
Wang also unveiled Jieyang’s ambition to become the world’s foremost hub for plastic chemical recycling, backed by strategic policy support and an open, market-driven business environment. The government is positioning the city as a global destination for forward-thinking enterprises by ensuring a legal, transparent, and international business climate.
Zhang Xingong, chairman of Guangdong Dongyue Chemical Technology Co., which spearheads the project, explained the technological breakthrough at the heart of the plant. Unlike traditional two-step recycling methods that require prior sorting and dissolving of plastics before chemical conversion, this process bypasses complex classification. Instead, it directly converts mixed waste plastics into chemical feedstocks, boosting efficiency and reducing operational costs.
Zhang further noted that the process achieves an impressive product yield of over 92%, significantly reducing plastic sorting expenses. Additionally, the method is designed to be environmentally friendly, with a strong focus on innovation, quality, efficiency, and long-term sustainability.
