An empty field in the middle of America will soon be teeming with a major plastics recycling operation.
Low density polyethylene recycler Avangard Innovative plans to build a $100 million facility that is expected to create 200 new jobs in Mount Vernon, Ind., and be open in a couple years.
The Houston-based company, which was recently purchased by Waste Management Inc., is planning a 500,000-square-foot location in Mount Vernon due to its proximity to plastics products maker Berry Global Group Inc.
"These are exciting times for Avangard Innovative, the state of Indiana, and the local community of Posey County," Avangard Innovative CEO Rick Perez said in a statement. "As we collaborate to advance recycling and sustainability solutions, we will positively impact the environment, the economy, and the overall well-being at local, state, and national levels."
The new location, with construction set to begin next year, will be on a 176-acre site and is expected to be operational in 2024, according to the Evansville Regional Economic Partnership.
Avangard Innovative will use mechanical techniques to transform film and flexible packaging at the new location to recycled resin for reuse.
Mount Vernon is located about 19 miles from Evansville, Ind., the headquarters for Berry Global, where the company also has manufacturing operations.
"This was about a year-long process. They have other customers here locally that make this a very attractive place for them to land," Jenna Richardt, a vice president with the Evansville Regional Economic Partnership, told Evansville television station WEVV. "Community is very excited. Posey County will see new jobs, and we will see business flourish."