Biochemistry company Carbios has partnered with Landbell Group, a German provider of closed-loop recycling solutions, to handle post-consumer PET (polyethylene terephthalate) waste at Carbios’ first commercial plant in Longlaville, France from 2026.
The companies have signed a non-binding memorandum of understanding (MoU) to leverage Landbell Group’s sourcing of PET packaging and textile waste which will be prepared for biorecycling using Carbios’ technology.
From 2026, Landbell Group will supply Carbios with 15 kilotonnes (kt) per year of PET flakes, ensuring a steady supply chain for sustainable PET production. These flakes will serve as essential feedstock to produce food-grade PTA [purified terepthlic acid] and MEG [monoethylene glycol], further re-polymerised into PET.
With Carbios’ highly selective enzyme, less sorting and washing is required compared to current recycling technologies, offering future savings in energy and water use.
Landbell Group will aim to ensure that problematic PET fractions such as multilayered, coloured and opaque trays from packaging waste and polyester textile waste are redirected to recycling.
Through this partnership, the supply of multilayer trays through the CITEO tender in France and the MoU with Indorama Ventures, Carbios will have sourced 70% of its feedstock required for the 50kt per year capacity when its first commercial plant in Longlaville, France, will operate at full capability.
Close to the borders with Belgium, Germany and Luxembourg, the plant’s location is strategic for nearby waste supplies.
Landbell Group COO Uwe Echteler commented: “PET trays are extensively used in food packaging due to their excellent barrier properties, transparency and strength. However, PET trays, especially with a multi-layered structure, currently pose a challenge for mechanical recycling.”
Carbios CEO Emmanuel Ladent added: “By minimising bottle usage and diversifying raw material sources, we’re advancing sustainability while meeting market demands effectively. Together, we’re forging a future where waste becomes a valuable resource.”
