WasteFuel, a U.S.-based bioenergy firm, has partnered with ITC, a prominent Turkish waste management company. The collaboration will develop a green methanol biorefinery in Ankara, Türkiye. This facility will be the first of its kind in Anatolia and one of the largest globally.
The biorefinery will be positioned next to ITC’s existing waste management center, which handles over 1.8 million metric tons of municipal waste each year. It will utilize biogas produced through anaerobic digestion and landfill gas collection processes.
Once operational, the facility will produce green methanol intended for maritime shipping, aiming to offer a low-carbon fuel alternative to the industry. The project aligns with the increasing demand for sustainable fuel solutions within the maritime sector.
Yavuz Kantur, General Manager of ITC, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, emphasizing a commitment to innovative waste treatment practices that positively affect local communities. He noted the significance of this project as a demonstration of ITC’s mission.
David Trench, CEO of WasteFuel, highlighted the importance of this collaboration for their global green fuel initiatives. He underscored the role of green methanol in the shipping sector’s decarbonization efforts, responding to a growing market demand.
Johan Fritz, WasteFuel’s Global Project Director, mentioned key factors for the project’s potential success. He noted ITC’s operational expertise, effective construction methods, and support from Turkish government representatives as essential components.
A final investment decision regarding the biorefinery is anticipated in early 2026. If approved, Türkiye could emerge as a vital hub for sustainable marine fuel in the regions of Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.
