CSIR-IICT partners with local firm to convert plastic waste to fuel

CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (CSIR-IICT) on Wednesday signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with local firm 2 Degrees Clicon Pvt. Ltd. to collaborate on advanced research in plastic-to-fuel technology.

The partnership aims to promote scientific innovation in converting non-recyclable end-of-life plastics into alternative industrial fuels, supporting sustainable waste management while reducing dependence on conventional fossil fuels.

Plastic packaging used in fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG), such as snack packets and sachets, is among the most difficult waste streams to recycle due to its composite and multi-layered structure. A significant portion of this waste ends up in landfills, open environments or is disposed of through uncontrolled burning.

Research at CSIR-IICT seeks to address this challenge through advanced thermochemical conversion processes that can transform unrecyclable plastics into valuable energy resources and industrial raw materials.

CSIR-IICT director D. Srinivas Reddy said the institute’s expertise in advanced chemical and thermochemical processes, combined with the firm’s industrial experience, would help scale plastic-to-fuel technology from laboratory research to large-scale deployment. CEO and co-founder of 2 Degrees Clicon Pvt. Ltd., Sheetal Agarwal said the collaboration would strengthen the scientific foundation of the technology and improve efficiency and fuel quality.

2 Degrees Clicon currently converts difficult-to-recycle plastic waste into fuels such as alternate diesel fuel and petro polymer fuel for use in industries including cement and steel, according to a press release.