Core Viewpoint - Sinopec has established a new subsidiary focused on resource recycling, indicating a strategic move towards sustainable practices in the chemical industry [2][3]. Group 1: Company Developments - Sinopec has invested in China Resource Recycling Group and is involved with Changde Technology, a "little giant" in chemical resource utilization that has recently initiated an IPO [2]. - Zhejiang Hengyi Group has signed an investment agreement for a 1 million ton green circular new materials project, focusing on the recycling of waste textiles, with a potential annual recycling volume exceeding 200,000 tons, which could reduce carbon emissions by 300,000 tons [4]. - Jiangsu Sanfangxiang has announced the establishment of a wholly-owned subsidiary with an investment of 100 million RMB, focusing on polyester recycling and developing food-grade polyester chip preparation technology [6]. Group 2: Technological Insights - Hengyi Group employs chemical recycling technology to depolymerize polyester into its monomer components, utilizing their proprietary "Yitaikang" antimony-free polyester technology to minimize environmental impact [4][5]. - Various depolymerization technologies exist, with glycolysis being the most mainstream and accessible for new entrants, offering advantages such as mild reaction conditions, easy product separation, and minimal fiber damage [5]. Group 3: Regulatory Environment - The EU mandates that by 2030, recycled materials must constitute at least 30% of textile products, while China's circular economy development plan aims for a 25% recycled fiber ratio [8]. - New EU packaging regulations require that by 2030, packaging must contain 10-35% recycled materials, emphasizing the shift towards circular economy practices [8]. - The automotive industry is also adapting, with regulations requiring the inclusion of recycled fibers in vehicle interiors to meet mandated recycled content [8]. Group 4: Market Landscape - International players in polyester chemical recycling include Eastman, SK Chemicals, and CARBIOS, while domestic companies like Zhejiang Jiaren New Materials and Hubei Chengfa Technology are also making strides in this sector [9]. - The market for polyester chemical recycling is seeing a surge in startups receiving significant funding, particularly in regions such as Europe, the US, and Asia [9].
中石化之后,又有两大化工巨头布局这一热门赛道