Total Corbion PLA recently announced the construction of its second world-scale PLA plant which will produce up to 100,000 tons annually. The plant is planned to start its operations in 2024. Just last year, the joint venture between Total and Corbion successfully inaugurated its PLA plant in Thailand which produces 75,000 tons per year. With the latest expansion in production capacity, Total Corbion aims at positioning itself as global market leader in PLA. The new production is planned to be located on a Total site in Grandpuits, France. It responds to the rapidly growing demand for Luminy® PLA resins.

“We are proud to be the first company launching a commercial scale Lactic Acid to PLA plant in Europe”, comments Stéphane Dion, CEO of Total Corbion PLA. The project comes along with an investment of 200 million Euro and the creation of additional jobs. It corresponds to the venture partners’ general aim to accelerate the shift towards a circular economy.

Total Corbion’s decision to build its plant in Europe sends a strong signal of commitment in times of uncertainty due to the Corona pandemic. It also expresses the European bioplastic industry’s conviction in its important role to help transforming Europe into a circular economy. However, further engagement requires a clear policy framework by the European Union which should acknowledge the benefits of bioplastics.