SIBUR Participates in Geneva Roundtable, Showcases Environmental Initiatives

On March 25, 2024, representatives from SIBUR, Russia's leading polymer and rubber producer, engaged in the Ecumene roundtable in Geneva to discuss their contributions toward the circular economy and reducing climate impact. This meeting precedes a United Nations discussion on a global agreement to address plastic pollution, a significant environmental concern.

Maxim Remchukov, SIBUR’s sustainability chief, highlighted the company’s efforts in polymer waste recycling, notably through its Vivilen brand. This initiative repurposes around 1.7 billion plastic bottles annually, diverting them from landfills. Furthermore, SIBUR collaborates on plastic collection and recycling projects, supports waste collection at sports events, and manufactures eco-friendly basketballs from recycled materials. These efforts complement the Russian government’s environmental policies, including recycling mandates and potential bans on certain plastic packagings.

Remchukov also emphasized the limitations of mechanical recycling and the promising future of chemical recycling (thermolysis), which SIBUR is exploring through a potential pilot plant. This innovative process could significantly advance plastic waste management by converting complex waste into primary polymers, thereby reducing the environmental footprint.

The company is also recognized for its climate initiatives, with a commitment to reducing over 6 million tons of CO2 emissions by 2032. SIBUR's strategy not only underpins its leadership in sustainable practices but also supports global efforts to mitigate environmental degradation caused by plastic pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.