TUBIS pioneers first commercial pyrolysis plant in Germany

GERMANY – TUBIS, a Munich-based technology firm, has begun constructing Germany’s first commercial pyrolysis plant. 

The innovative facility aims to transform mixed plastic waste into valuable petrochemical products, marking a pivotal step in advancing the circular economy for plastics.

The plant, located in Munich, will process up to 24,000 tons of plastic waste annually, converting materials like plastic bags, bottles, and food packaging items often destined for incineration or landfills into high-quality oil and gas. 

According to TUBIS, their proprietary pyrolysis process heats mixed plastics to high temperatures in an oxygen-free environment, breaking down complex hydrocarbons into reusable petrochemical feedstocks. 

This approach not only reduces waste but also produces resources that can be reintegrated into the production of virgin-quality plastics.

“We’re committed to closing the loop on plastic waste,” said a TUBIS spokesperson in a statement. “Our technology allows us to recycle plastics that were previously considered unrecyclable, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional disposal methods.” 

The spokesperson emphasized that the facility’s output will support industries seeking eco-friendly raw materials, aligning with global efforts to reduce plastic pollution.

The plant’s development follows TUBIS’s successful operation of a similar facility in Bulgaria, where the company demonstrated the scalability of its pyrolysis process. 

By establishing long-term contracts with recycling and industrial partners, TUBIS ensures a steady supply of mixed plastic waste, enhancing the plant’s operational efficiency. 

The Munich facility is expected to create jobs and stimulate regional efforts to manage household waste sustainably.

In a related development,Pruvia, another German company, announced plans to build a 35,000-tonne-per-year pyrolysis plant in Gendorf Chemical Park, set to begin operations in late 2026. 

This facility will employ 30 people initially and aims to double its capacity by 2028, further underscoring the rising adoption of pyrolysis technology in Europe. 

“The shift toward chemical recycling is transformative,” said a Pruvia executive. “It allows us to tackle plastic waste that mechanical recycling can’t handle.”

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