The debate around allowing waste to cross borders is not exclusive to Vietnam, as Janmark points out. This is an ongoing discussion within the regulatory circuit, with the argument that properly sorted waste should be considered a raw material rather than waste.
Coleo, a Spanish recycler, has taken a unique approach by establishing a waste sorting and pre-processing facility in Toulouse, France. This move allows them to benefit from France’s extended producer responsibility (EPR) scheme, where they receive payment for processing post-consumer textile waste. Additionally, they earn a success fee for proving that their finished product is sold to a recycler, often their own mechanical recycling hub in Spain.
Spain’s strong culture of reuse makes it an advantageous location for recycling operations. This culture facilitates obtaining permits for recycling plants and makes it more cost-effective to insure these facilities.
When deciding on the location for a recycling startup, choosing the exact plot is a crucial step. Industrial parks are often preferred due to their existing infrastructure and familiarity with the permit process. Nobelius, who has scouted numerous industrial parks in Vietnam, emphasizes the importance of finding a site with the necessary infrastructure and expertise in handling chemicals.
Companies like Circ use a framework called “frontend loading” to determine the ideal production site. This involves detailed analysis of factors such as energy, water usage, logistics, and legal considerations. Circ’s CEO, Peter Majeranowski, highlights the complexity of these decisions, as they involve significant capital investment in long-lasting assets.
Circ’s upcoming commercial-scale production plant in Saint-Avold, France, exemplifies the meticulous planning involved in selecting a production site. Due to open in 2028, this plant will play a pivotal role in their circular economy initiatives.
Overall, the process of choosing a production site for recycling operations involves thorough research, strategic decision-making, and a commitment to sustainability. By leveraging existing schemes and infrastructure, companies can establish successful recycling facilities that contribute to a more sustainable future.
