Key facts
- MacroCycle's technology generates 80% fewer carbon emissions than new PET plastic.
- Meta will pay MacroCycle for environmental attribute credits.
- MacroCycle's first plant will produce 5,000 metric tons of recycled plastic per year.
- MacroCycle's process uses solvents instead of heat, reducing energy use and costs.
- The startup aims to produce recycled textiles domestically at competitive prices.
- Future MacroCycle plants will produce 50,000 metric tons of material annually.
Plastics recycling startup MacroCycle has secured a deal with Meta that will provide crucial funding for its first commercial plant. The agreement, announced Tuesday, will see Meta pay MacroCycle for the rights to environmental attribute credits (EACs), allowing Meta to count the emissions reductions toward its own growing carbon footprint, particularly as it scales up AI infrastructure.
MacroCycle, based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, has developed a process that strips contaminants from plastic waste, resulting in a recycled material that is more attractive to customers. The company claims its technology generates 80% fewer carbon emissions compared to virgin PET plastic. This revenue stream from EACs is intended to support the construction of MacroCycle's new plant in the U.S.
Beyond the credits, Meta's interest lies in fostering a market for low-carbon materials, which are used in its supply chain for packaging and hardware. By helping to grow this market, Meta aims to lower its overall carbon footprint.
The startup's demonstration plant will have a capacity of 5,000 metric tons of recycled plastic per year. MacroCycle's process involves dissolving and purifying PET from various waste streams, including textiles, which have a very low recycling rate. The company uses solvents instead of heat, a method that contributes to energy savings and potentially lower costs, enabling it to compete with overseas suppliers for recycled textiles.
MacroCycle is currently seeking buyers for the material produced by its first plant. Co-founder and CEO Stewart Peña Feliz stated that the deal with Meta is expected to facilitate future agreements with other companies. He also indicated that subsequent plants are planned to have a capacity of 50,000 metric tons per year.