Nov 12, 2021   SOURCE: BusinessWire

Circulus Launches Operations and Emerges as Leader in Plastics Recycling

Circulus – a Houston-based public benefit limited liability company (PBLLC) producing PCR from recycled low-density polyethylene (LDPE) – today announced its launch in the U.S. market, starting with its fully operational plant in Riverbank, California. Circulus is a portfolio company of Ara Partners, a Houston-based private equity firm specializing in industrial decarbonization investments.

An emerging leader in plastics recycling, Circulus is building out a widespread footprint of plants that utilize advanced technologies with a multistep mechanical process to transform lower grade plastic into resin suitable for a variety of commercial and industrial applications. The company’s products address sustainability challenges with flexible plastics and revolutionize the use of PCR for plastic bags, shrink film, pouches, overwraps, and many more consumer-facing applications.

Circulus’ facility in Riverbank is designed to produce an excess of 40 million pounds of PCR each year. Compared to using virgin plastic, the resulting energy savings is the equivalent of 30 million gallons of gasoline, or about 30,000 trips around the Earth in the average car. The greenhouse gas emissions associated with production of Circulus’ PCR is approximately 88% below that of virgin resin.

“We are thrilled to contribute to the foundation that will minimize the impact of industrial manufacturing and preserve our environment for future generations," said David Hudson, Circulus’ Founder & CEO. “Through our significant investment in infrastructure and commitment to manufacturing excellence, we are supporting green job creation and reinforcing the nation’s global position in sustainable manufacturing.”

Circulus is dedicated to environmental sustainability, diverting plastic from landfills, incineration, and the earth’s oceans. By expanding its footprint, the company is meeting insatiable demand for high-quality PCR by upcycling the nation’s plastic waste into circular, consumer-facing products. Circulus is committed to significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions by operating facilities that utilize 100% renewable energy, including hydroelectric and wind power, and 85% recycled water.

Troy Thacker, a Managing Partner at Ara Partners, said, “We are pleased by the success of Circulus’ first facility. The high-quality PCR produced enables consumer-facing brands to enhance their packaging and eliminate a significant quantity of greenhouse gas emissions and environmental degradation. We look forward to continuing to partner with the Circulus team to expand its footprint.”

The first Circulus plant is fully operational in Riverbank with multiple plants under construction and development. To learn more about Circulus, please visit the company website at www.circulus.com.

About Circulus
Circulus Holdings, PBLLC is focused on the conversion of plastic waste into post-consumer resins (PCR) utilizing world-class mechanical recycling solutions. Circulus contributes to the circular economy by recycling plastics to their highest and best use while eliminating waste. The company is headquartered in Houston, Texas and currently has facilities in development across the U.S.

About Ara Partners
Ara Partners is a private equity firm specializing in industrial decarbonization investments. Ara Partners invests in the industrial & manufacturing, chemicals & materials, energy efficiency & green fuels and food & agriculture sectors, seeking to build businesses that are focused on sustainability and ESG principles. For more information on Ara Partners, please visit www.arapartners.com.