Petrochemical company Braskem has introduced a new biocircular polypropylene (PP) product, which is marketed under the WENEW brand. 

The new product is aimed at enhancing sustainability within the restaurant and snack food industries.  

This material is derived from used cooking oil (UCO) and is certified as a biocircular International Sustainability and Carbon Certification Plus mass-balanced product.  

It offers a significant step towards reducing reliance on fossil fuels and promoting a circular economy in the sector. 

The material is said to maintain the same properties and performance as conventional PP, ensuring that clients can adopt it without any disruptions. 

Braskem America polyolefins vice-president Bill Diebold said: "Our biocircular PP is currently being supplied to various converters which support the quick service restaurant (QSR) industry.  

“Ideal users include QSR chains, retail food suppliers, traditional restaurants, and snack food companies especially those seeking to enhance circularity from their cooking oil usage. This versatile material is suitable for a wide range of applications, including food packaging, flexible packaging (such as films), and consumer goods.” 

Braskem has collaborated with multiple suppliers in its value chain to convert UCO biocircular feedstock into PP, thus creating a sustainable cycle. 

Braskem America sustainability commercial manager Courtney Keller added: “The launch of our biocircular PP marks a pivotal moment in pursuing sustainability within the restaurant and snack food industries.

"By adopting this innovative solution, companies can play a crucial role in promoting circularity and reducing their environmental impact. Join us in embracing a greener future with biocircular polypropylene.” 

In February this year, Braskem added two new PP grades with post-consumer recycled content to its circular polymer portfolio.