Transforming Plastic Waste into Sustainable Steel: Erie's Innovative Recycling Solution

In a groundbreaking move, a company in Erie, Pennsylvania, is set to revolutionize the way we approach plastic waste management. International Recycling Group (IRG) has secured a conditional loan guarantee from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to build a massive plastics recycling facility, offering a unique solution that not only reduces waste but also contributes to the production of sustainable steel.

Unlocking the Potential of Plastic Waste

Tackling the Recycling Challenge

The United States currently faces a significant challenge when it comes to plastic recycling, with only 5 to 6 percent of plastics being successfully recycled. Mitch Hecht, the CEO of IRG, aims to change this narrative by creating a comprehensive collection and processing system that will make it easier for households to participate in the recycling process.IRG's plan involves collecting all types of plastics, including those that are typically difficult to recycle, such as styrofoam and plastic film. By removing the "frustration from households [and] homeowners to figure out what's good plastic and bad plastic," the company hopes to significantly increase the amount of plastic waste that is diverted from landfills and repurposed.

Innovative Recycling Processes

At the heart of IRG's plan is a state-of-the-art recycling facility in Erie, where the collected plastics will be sorted and processed at high speed and low cost. The facility will focus on recycling plastics labeled #1, #2, and #5, which have established recycling markets and can be easily reused in the production of new products.But IRG's innovation doesn't stop there. The company has also developed a unique solution for the plastics that are typically considered unrecyclable. These materials, such as styrofoam and plastic film, will be converted into a product called CleanRed, which can be used as a replacement for coal in the steelmaking process.

Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions

According to a study commissioned by IRG and conducted by Gamini Mendis, an assistant professor of plastics engineering technology at Penn State University, the use of CleanRed in steel production could result in a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. The study found that this process could reduce annual emissions by more than 1.8 million tons, the equivalent of removing 400,000 cars from the road each year.The DOE has recognized the environmental benefits of IRG's project, which is one of the key reasons it has provided the conditional loan guarantee of $182.6 million through the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). The agency's analysis found a 24% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions when using CleanRed in steelmaking, further solidifying the project's sustainability credentials.

Creating Jobs and Opportunities

The IRG project has garnered support from the local business community in Erie, including major players like Erie Insurance and the local plastics industry. Additionally, Gary Horton, the president of the Erie chapter of the NAACP and the CEO and president of the Urban Erie Community Development Corporation, is excited about the potential for new jobs and training opportunities in the area.According to IRG's community benefits plan, the facility is expected to employ 221 people in its third year of operation, with a focus on hiring at least 66% of the technical and operations team from the local low-income community. The DOE's involvement in the project is seen as a safeguard, ensuring that IRG follows through on its promises to the community.

Addressing Community Concerns

While the project has garnered significant support, it has also faced some opposition from local residents and environmental groups. Concerns have been raised about the potential for air pollution, traffic congestion, and the impact on the nearby Lake Erie.IRG has acknowledged these concerns and has stated that it is willing to engage with the community and address their questions. The company has also noted that it held a town hall meeting in 2020 to discuss the project with residents.As the project moves forward, the DOE has committed to conducting an environmental assessment, which will include a public review and comment period. This process will provide an opportunity for the community to voice their concerns and ensure that the project is implemented in a responsible and sustainable manner.