LanzaTech Global Inc. & Plastipak has partnered to produce PPK Natura, which is the world’s first polyethylene terephthalate resin made from waste carbon.

United States: Polyethylene Terephthalate is a polymer that is molded into plastic bottles and containers for packaging food and beverages, personal care products and many other consumer goods. polyethylene terephthalate resins comprises 30% monoethylene glycol (MEG) which is traditionally derived from petroleum. Plastipak Packaging, Inc., a world leader in the design, manufacture, and recycling of plastic containers, and LanzaTech Global, Inc., an innovative carbon capture and transformation ("CCT") company, announced that they have successfully produced PPKNatura, the world's first polyethylene terephthalate (PET) resin made from captured carbon. Waste carbon is converted into materials such as sustainable fuels, fabrics, packaging, and other products that people use in their daily lives. The resin is appropriate for packaging in the food, personal care, and pharmaceutical industries in addition to various non-packaging uses.

According to the , CEO of LanzaTech,  “LanzaTech’s commercial technology is designed to enable our partners in diverse industries to reduce their carbon footprint and overall environmental impact. Our partnership with Plastipak is critical to demonstrating what is possible today. Today we are producing food- and pharmaceutical-grade packaging and are well on our way to creating a more sustainable future for all.”

The Executive Managing Director, of Plastipak (Europe), stated “We are delighted to partner with LanzaTech to achieve early progress in our ambition to produce polyethylene terephthalate with lower environmental impacts. The use of CarbonSmart MEG is a first and important milestone in our journey toward this goal and combined with use of renewable electricity in the production process, has contributed to significant progress in indicators such as carbon reduction and use of fossil resources. PPKNatura resin is one element of Plastipak’s ESG program, which among other initiatives, targets the extension of our product circularity with the intent of supporting customers in reducing their Scope 3 emissions. We look forward to a long and mutually beneficial partnership with LanzaTech as we work together to achieve our long-term goals”

According to TechSci Research, polyethylene terephthalate market has witnessed remarkable growth in recent years, driven by factors such as increasing consumer demand for eco-friendly packaging, rising disposable income, and a growing preference for convenience products. While packaging remains the dominant sector for polyethylene terephthalate applications, the material is finding new avenues beyond traditional uses. polyethylene terephthalate fibers are increasingly being used in the textile industry, contributing to the production of sustainable clothing, sportswear, and upholstery. polyethylene terephthalate is also employed in the automotive sector for manufacturing components such as seatbelts and interior fabrics. Its excellent strength, durability, and resistance to chemicals make it a reliable choice for various non-packaging applications. By utilizing waste carbon as a feedstock, the production of PET resin reduces dependence on fossil fuels and mitigates carbon emissions. It helps divert waste from landfills and promotes a circular economy by repurposing carbon waste into valuable products. Utilizing waste carbon sources preserves natural resources and reduces the extraction of raw materials. It promotes a more sustainable and efficient use of available resources, contributing to a greener future. PET resin from waste carbon offers a lower carbon footprint compared to traditional PET production. The use of waste carbon feedstocks, combined with energy-efficient manufacturing processes, reduces greenhouse gas emissions and overall environmental impact.