Why did Viridor shut down its European advanced recycling operations?

Viridor shut down its pyrolysis-based advanced recycling operations in Skive (Denmark), Oslo (Norway), and Malmö (Sweden) because 'without stronger market conditions, greater regulatory certainty and the right policy support, the sector is not commercially viable' — as stated by Lee Hodder, managing director/carbon capture and circular solutions at Viridor. The company cited weakened demand for recycled material, persistent price undercutting by cheaper virgin plastics, and insufficient policy enforcement or long-term regulatory support as decisive factors.

What was Viridor's technical performance in advanced plastics recycling before the shutdown?

Since acquiring Quantafuel AS in 2024 for about $100 million, Viridor achieved dry yields of 70–75% and demonstrated successful recycling of contaminated household plastics that cannot be processed through conventional mechanical recycling methods — a key technical capability highlighted in its June 25 announcement.

Viridor shuts down European advanced recycling operations

Jul 14, 2026

Viridor closed its pyrolysis-based advanced recycling facilities across Europe due to weak market demand and policy uncertainty. Cheaper virgin materials continue to undercut recycled alternatives despite technical success post-acquisition of Quantafuel.

chemweek

2026-07-14

Viridor shuts down European advanced recycling operations

Viridor shuts down European advanced recycling operations

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