Name

Transforming waste into value: Sustainable glucose from recovered cellulose for production of biopolymers

Speakers

Richard Clarke, Ian Jordens

Authors

Richard Clarke, United Utilities, UK
Coos Wessels, CirTec B.V., Netherlands
Ian Jordens, Recell Group B.V., Netherlands

Description

Forming a major element within the current Ofwat innovation competition project “Biopolymers in the Circular Economy”, the conversion of cellulose recovered from wastewater into glucose represents a significant innovation for the chemical industry, offering a sustainable feedstock for biopolymer production. This process involves three critical steps: resource recovery using CirTec’s CellCap system, glucose production from cellulose through Cellforce technology, and utilizing the resulting glucose to manufacture biopolymers. Glucose derived from waste streams is a valuable raw material that can replace fossil-based feedstocks, advancing the sustainability of the chemical industry. This approach supports the transition to a circular economy, reduces waste, and mitigates carbon emissions, including Scope 3 emissions tied to the entire value chain.

Water utilities are key collaborators in this initiative, driven by regulatory requirements such as the European Union's Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive, which mandates wastewater treatment to protect human health and the environment. Participating in cellulose recovery and conversion projects helps utilities meet these standards, align with the EU’s zero-pollution goals, reduce operational costs, and promote community benefits through sustainable practices.

Beyond compliance, this innovative value chain fosters environmental and economic gains, reducing climate impacts and driving green innovation. By integrating waste management with industrial processes, technologies like CellCap and CellForce demonstrate how resource recovery can advance global sustainability and strengthen the economic and environmental resilience of the chemical industry.

Time

9:25 AM - 9:50 AM

Location Name

Room 3

Track

09:00 - 10:40 Circular Economy