OMV has launched its innovative ReOil plant, based on chemical recycling technology , at the Schwechat refinery in Austria. Following years of research and development, this new facility has the capacity to process up to 16,000 tons of difficult-to-recycle plastic waste annually.
Technology that transforms plastics into valuable resources
OMV’s ReOil technology has become a global benchmark in chemical recycling. This advanced process converts mixed plastic waste into pyrolysis oil, which serves as a feedstock for producing essential chemicals for a wide range of applications.
By reusing materials that would have traditionally been discarded, ReOil not only reduces the amount of plastics in landfills but also lowers CO₂ emissions compared to conventional waste disposal methods.
Towards CO₂ reduction by 2030
The implementation of ReOil is a technological breakthrough and also a fundamental shift in OMV’s strategy to achieve climate neutrality by 2050. According to analyses, if recyclable plastics are chemically processed using this technology, CO₂ emissions can be reduced by up to 34% compared to waste incineration .
This type of chemical recycling represents a key element in mitigating the effects of climate change and advancing the reduction of global plastic waste.
The future of chemical recycling
Since its initial start-up in 2018, ReOil’s pilot plant has demonstrated the potential of this technology. With over 30,000 hours of operation, the plant has processed more than 2.1 million kilograms of plastics . The success of this pilot facility was crucial to OMV’s decision to scale the operation to an industrial scale.
In 2025, OMV plans to begin construction of an even larger plant , supported by an EU grant of €81.6 million. This will further consolidate OMV’s position as a leader in chemical recycling.
By integrating ReOil into its Schwechat refinery, OMV is advancing the adoption of more sustainable solutions and strengthening its commitment to the circular economy. Through its 2030 Strategy, OMV continues to innovate and invest in processes that enable resource recovery, reducing its environmental impact and contributing to a greener future.
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Source and photo: OMV
