Freepoint Eco-Systems LLC is moving forward with plans to build a chemical recycling plant in Hebron, Ohio.
Houston-based Freepoint recently obtained an ISCC PLUS Certificate for the plant from the International Sustainability and Carbon Certification Association (ISCC), a global environmental organization, officials said in a news release.
"Freepoint is committed to being part of the solution to the growing environmental problem of plastic waste," CEO Jeff McMahon said. "We're excited to have received certification from the ISCC for our Ohio facility."
The proposed plant will convert waste plastic into feedstock for use in the production of prime-quality plastic resins. The Ohio facility will recycle almost 200 million pounds per year of end-of-life plastic that would otherwise be destined for landfills or incineration, officials said. The plant is set to open in 2023.
ISCC provides certification for companies committed to providing sustainable solutions for fully traceable supply chains and the circular economy. Freepoint officials said that obtaining ISCC certification "represents a substantial commitment to environmental protection and sustainability."
Obtaining certification is a five-step process, which is accomplished through engagement with an impartial third-party auditor.
According to Freepoint's website, the firm uses a pyrolysis process that allows for most types of plastic to be reused and recycled. In the process, high-temperature reactors vaporize plastic waste in an oxygen-free environment. The resulting liquid then is used to make new plastic.
Freepoint announced plans for the Hebron site in December. In October, the firm announced plans to build a plant in Texas in partnership with materials firm TotalEnergies and recycling firm Plastic Energy Ltd. That plant is set to open in 2024.
In September, Freepoint confirmed that it would be sourcing plastic waste feedstock, including DuPont Co.'s Tyvek-brand polyethylene film, from packaging firm Technipaq Inc. of Crystal Lake, Ill.
Freepoint is a unit of global commodities trader Freepoint Commodities LLC of Stamford, Conn.