In a recent episode of the Circular Academy podcast by Business Upper Austria and the University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria, Rudolf Wölfer, Head of Innovation Centers for Circular Economy Solutions was interviewed. With an impressive 35-year tenure at Borealis, Rudolf has been at the forefront of pioneering sustainable solutions in the plastics industry.

Bio-based Plastics: A Step Towards Circularity

Rudolf highlighted the significance of bio-based plastics in reducing the CO2 footprint. Borealis’ Bornewables product line, derived from food production waste, exemplifies this innovation. These materials not only offer high purity but also superior performance, making them suitable for applications in medical technology.

Borcycle and Borvida: Revolutionizing Recycling

Borealis has introduced two groundbreaking recycling processes: Borcycle and Borvida. Borcycle focuses on mechanical and chemical recycling of plastics, aiming for high-quality applications such as automotive parts. Borvida, on the other hand, deals with basic chemicals, utilizing biogenic waste and chemical recycling to produce essential materials.

Design for Recycling: Enhancing Reusability

Design for Recycling involves creating plastic items that can be easily reused and recycled into high-quality materials. For instance, simplifying multi-layer packaging into monomaterial solutions can significantly improve recyclability.

Future Vision

Borealis’ Strategy 2030 places sustainability and the circular economy at the heart of its operations. The company aims to reinvent essentials for sustainable living, expanding its geographical footprint while maintaining a strong commitment to innovation and value creation.

Commitment to Circular Economy

On a personal note, Rudolf shared his dedication to the circular economy, inspired by the natural cycles he studied in biochemistry. He emphasized the importance of individual actions and societal change to ensure a sustainable future for coming generations.

Conclusion

Rudolf Wölfer’s insights underscore the critical role of innovation in achieving a circular economy. Borealis’ efforts in developing bio-based plastics, advanced recycling processes, and circular business models are paving the way for a greener future. As we move forward, it is essential for companies and individuals alike to embrace these principles and contribute to a sustainable world.

For more detailed insights, listen to the full podcast episode (language: german) on Spotify: