Closed Loop Recycling is all set to expand the HDPE recycling capabilities of its Dagenham-based plant with investment in new infrastructure.

The move is expected to double the supply of recycled HDPE (rHDPE) to the UK market to 55,000t annually from the existing 35,000t.

According to the company, the expansion is targeted to address growing demands of the dairy industry for rHDPE bottles for packaging milk.

Closed Loop Recycling CEO Chris Dow said recycled milk bottles are a massive win for the circular economy.

"The increased demand for recycled content is an example of the whole industry working together - retailers, producers, brands and industry bodies - to implement an ambitious plan," Dow added.

The company expects the expansion to support its 2020 target of offering 50% recycled material in plastic bottles.

With the investment, the company plans to establish an advanced plastics purification facility in the country that would help in reduction of about 30,000t of carbon emissions.

The company has signed a deal with the London Thames Gateway Development Corporation (LTGDC) to lease three acres of additional space adjacent to its Dagenham site, to help facilitate any future expansion.

Started in December 2008, Closed Loop Recycling's Dagenham plant has annual production capacity of 35,000t of mixed plastic bottles including 11,000t of rPET and 6,000t of rHDPE.

Image: Closed Loop plant exterior. Photo: Courtesy of Closed Loop Recycling