The objective of the regional OPTOCE project is to explore the potential involvement of the cement industry in expanding treatment capacity for Non-Recyclable Plastic Wastes (NRPW). By doing so, we aim to contribute to the reduction of microplastic release into the sea. Our pilot initiatives are designed to exemplify this potential through localized proof of concept. In other words, the Pilot Demonstrations will conduct a comparative analysis of technical and environmental performance. This will involve assessing baseline conditions versus co-processing conditions, where different types and quantities of non-recyclable plastic waste are utilized alongside coal as co-fuel. The outcomes will undergo rigorous and unbiased verification, with results subsequently published in scientific or technical journals.

This project is part of the Norwegian Development Programme to Combat Marine Litter and Microplastics and investigates how the involvement of cement industry can increase the treatment capacity for NRPW in China, India, Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam and thereby contribute to reduce the release of plastics to the Ocean.

More than 175 nations have agreed to develop a legally binding agreement on plastic pollution by 2024, prompting a major step towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions from plastic production, use and disposal. Many oppose co-processing of NRPW in cement kilns and want this practice to be banned. The aim of the OPTOCE project is to document scientifically the benefits and potential weaknesses of co-processing and to provide the premises on disposal options for NRPW and support science-based policy and decision making.

Speakers:

• Dr. Kåre Helge Karstensen, Chief Scientist and Programme Manager. SINTEF
• Dr. Adriannah Mbandi, Lead, Waste, Climate Champions
• Claude Lorea, Cement, Innovation and ESG Director
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