Home / Projects / ASU Circular Plastics Microfactory
Overview
Arizona State University’s Circular Plastics Microfactory, piloted and scaled by the Rob and Melani Walton Sustainability Solutions Service, aims to transform the recycling value chain, accelerate circular economy efforts and develop green jobs using a systems approach. Its innovative platform, focus on public education and ability to transform otherwise unrecyclable plastic waste into valuable resources makes it a stand-out solution for circular waste management.
The microfactory supports circular economy efforts by minimizing waste, reducing environmental impact, creating jobs and driving sustainable solutions for a positive future. Pathways for success and inclusion for underserved communities are built into this project, creating opportunities for BIPOC communities to contribute to circular economic development.
Outcomes
The Circular Plastics Microfactory, the first of its kind, was successfully launched in 2024. Since then, the initiative has diverted over 107,000 pounds of HDPE and LPDE plastic waste from landfills. Partnerships formed across the plastics value chain allow this project to support feedstock supply accumulation, processing conversion into new materials, innovative product design and distribution to end markets. The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality’s Voluntary Environmental Stewardship Program recognized the microfactory for its efforts and achievements in sustainability.
Looking ahead, the microfactory plans to scale operations by deploying a network of semi-industrial and mobile facilities globally. This will enable localized manufacturing to meet regional consumer demands in industries like sports and home goods. The hub-and-spoke model aims to bring circular solutions to urban and rural communities, as well as supporting major regional events. Continued sustainability impact will be seen across greenhouse gas emission reductions, resource conservation and advancement in innovative, localized recycling systems.
Quotes
We are excited to make history today in Phoenix. We have a sense that, from Phoenix, this will go throughout the world, and it’s exciting to be leading in innovation right now. Phoenix will be known for whatever great ideas come out of this facility.
Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego, said at the grand opening of the microfactory.
Through the Circularity Plastics Recycled Microfactory, we are not just innovating with sustainable materials—we’re forging partnerships that empower communities. By sharing knowledge, fostering entrepreneurship and building a skilled workforce, we’re not only advancing technology, but also creating a ripple effect of positive change that will make the world a better place for future generations.
Crys Waddell, Founder and Executive, Hustle PHX
While the world is rightfully focused on recycling of plastic packaging, most plastics are used in non-packaging applications and these are vastly under-recycled. The circular microfactory is an important, exciting pilot project that will benefit the local community though keeping more plastics in the circular economy, and also demonstrate the technical and economic models needed to scale additional plastic recycling programs across the country.
Scott Trenor, PhD Technical Director Association of Plastic Recyclers
Project partners
● City of Phoenix
● Wells Fargo
● Goodwill of Central and Northern Arizona
● Hustle PHX
ASU Circular Plastics Microfactory in the media
A world full of plastic … not fantastic
November 20, 2024 | ASU News
When Timothy Long’s kids were growing up, he never let them toss their gum out the window, explaining that the gum would still be there for many years to come. Many think it is a bio-based material, but a majority of mass-produced gum contains plastic. And plastic was designed to last forever.
First-of-its-kind Phoenix microfactory converts plastic waste into new products
May 20, 2024 | abc15.com
PHOENIX — A unique recycling venture that opened earlier this year is cutting down on waste, creating jobs and trying new technologies on a larger scale.
Decarbonizing cities and transportation to tackle climate change
May 15, 2024 | The Washington Post
Transportation is the largest contributor of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions, accounting for about nearly 30 percent in most recent estimates. Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego and Ford’s chief sustainability officer Bob Holycross discuss efforts to decarbonize transportation, build out electric vehicle infrastructure and design smarter cities.
Arizona partnership micro-factory will process PP, PE
February 21, 2024 | recycling.com
For years, recycling collection has focused on centralizing material and processing high volumes. An Arizona project is exploring other options with a micro-factory.
Collaboration towards a circular economy: City of Phoenix and Arizona State University
February 6, 2024 | foundation.org
Since 2011, the City of Phoenix and Arizona State University have partnered to accelerate the circular economy transition in the city. Characterized by insightful applied research and the launch of impactful initiatives such as Reimagine Phoenix and the Resource Innovation and Solutions Network, the partnership has played a critical role in more than doubling the city’s waste diversion rates in six years. After 2020, the partnership evolved from having a focus on applied research to curating pilot projects to support Phoenix’s circular ambitions.