Rotterdam's Initiative Supports Obbotec's Recycling Breakthrough
Rotterdam, Tuesday, 4 March 2025.
Obbotec, fueled by Rotterdam’s circular innovation subsidy, advances sustainable solutions for bio and plastic waste recycling, with global application potential through its SPEX technology.
Pioneering Sustainable Technology
Founded in 2018 by entrepreneurs Wouter van Neerbos, Sander Hazewinkel, and Diederik Jaspers, Obbotec has developed a groundbreaking solution for plastic waste recycling through its SPEX (Selective Plastic Extraction) technology [1]. This innovative process positions itself between mechanical and chemical recycling methods, achieving higher yields and quality without compromising environmental standards [1]. The technology’s distinctive feature lies in its ability to selectively extract plastic molecules from waste streams, producing virgin-quality plastic that matches the performance of new materials [1].
Municipal Support Driving Innovation
The Municipality of Rotterdam’s circular innovation subsidy has played a pivotal role in Obbotec’s development journey. According to co-founder Wouter van Neerbos, this support has enabled crucial laboratory research and testing phases leading to their pilot installation [1]. Beyond financial assistance, the municipality has facilitated valuable connections with industry partners and helped navigate complex regulatory frameworks [1]. This aligns with Rotterdam’s broader commitment to achieving a fully circular economy by 2050 [2].
Future Expansion and Impact
Obbotec has set an ambitious target to establish a commercial factory by 2027, marking a significant milestone in accelerating the circular transition [1]. This development comes at a crucial time, as recent reports indicate that the Netherlands is currently not on track to meet its circular goals of reducing fossil, mineral, and metal resource use by 50% by 2030 [2]. The project exemplifies the growing importance of chemical recycling in Europe’s sustainable future, with industry summits and conferences increasingly focusing on such innovative solutions [5].