Blue Circle Olefins is working to cut the chemical sector’s carbon emissions by producing essential chemicals from sustainable, circular methanol. Their approach leverages existing technology and raw materials to create a greener, more efficient manufacturing process.
Founders Ralph Koekkoek and Reinier Grimbergen plan to build a plant in Rotterdam or Geleen that will produce 200,000 tons of ethylene and propylene annually by 2029. They aim to increase capacity to one million tons—matching traditional steam crackers—within a few years.
Ethylene and propylene are fundamental chemicals used in plastics, paints, and countless everyday products. Koekkoek states, “For example Lego bricks are made from ABS plastic, for which propylene is a key ingredient. By using circular propylene, we can make Lego bricks significantly more sustainable.”
The company collaborates with suppliers that turn renewable sources such as biogas, bio-waste, mixed plastic waste or green hydrogen combined with captured CO₂ into circular methanol. Grimbergen explains; “in all these cases, the lifecycle CO₂ emission reduction of the olefins we produce from these types of methanol is at least 80 percent compared to current fossil-based olefins.”
What sets Blue Circle apart is its use of proven, large-scale technology already employed in countries like China. This enables them to skip lengthy pilot phases and move directly to commercial production. While initial costs may be slightly higher than fossil-based olefins, the sustainability benefits create a “green premium” that brands can use for marketing.
Looking ahead, the founders are confident that rising carbon prices and stricter regulations will make circular olefins cost-competitive with fossil alternatives as of 2035. They are currently seeking around half a billion euros in funding and are in discussions with supply chain partners and consumer brands eager to improve sustainability.
The planned facility will be located near Rotterdam or Chemelot, close to major customers. Blue Circle demonstrates that upgrading existing processes with circular raw materials can drive industry-wide change without needing to reinvent entire supply chains. Their vision offers a viable, scalable path towards greener chemicals.
