Emirates Biotech, a leading innovator in the biopolymers industry, is set to start construction this year on its major polylactic acid (PLA) production plant in the UAE.

The facility will be constructed in two phases, each with an annual capacity of 80,000 tonnes, resulting in a total production capacity of 160,000 tonnes per annum. Once completed, it will be the largest PLA production facility in the world.

Supporting regional and global efforts to combat plastic pollution and climate change, this volume of bioplastic material is enough to replace approximately 3.2 billion plastic bottles and will reduce CO2 emissions by over 300,000 tonnes annually.

The company has selected Sulzer, a global leader in fluid engineering headquartered in Switzerland, as the technology provider for the project. The plant expected to be operational by early 2028.

The facility will use Lactic Acid (LA) as its feedstock to produce PLA, offering a low-carbon footprint and biodegradable alternatives to conventional plastics, further contributing to the circular economy.

PLA offers a sustainable alternative to traditional plastics. It is widely used in applications such as packaging, disposable utensils, helping to reduce reliance on single-use plastics across the globe.

Emirates Biotech will leverage Sulzer’s licensed PLA technology to manage all production steps from a single location, including lactide production, purification and polymerisation. The facility will also use a plant-based feedstock to produce high-quality PLA bioplastics at scale, positioning the Middle East as a key player in the bioplastics industry.

With over two centuries of industry experience and a strong track record in the bioplastics sector, Sulzer’s licensed PLA technology is already in use at most PLA facilities worldwide. This new development strengthens Sulzer’s commitment to supporting global industry in adopting circular manufacturing and building a more prosperous and sustainable society.

Shaikh Suhail Ali Saeed Rashed Al-Maktoum, a key shareholder of Emirates Biotech, commented: “This project highlights our commitment to sustainability and economic diversification. By leveraging innovative technologies and strategic partnerships, we aim to establish the UAE as a global leader in the production of eco-friendly materials.”