Under a new strategic partnership, Birla Cellulose is making a purchasing commitment to a U.S. company that aims to accelerate the scaling of fiber recycling.
Birla Cellulose is teaming with Circ, a 2023 Earthshot Prize Finalist and 2024 Fast Company Most Innovative Company specializing in material technology and manufacturing. The Indian-based company has committed to purchase up-to 5,000 tons of Circ’s pulp per year for a period of 5 years from Circ’s first commercial-scale facility.
The pulp will be converted into lyocell staple fiber, enhancing access to recycled materials and supporting Circ as it scales its commercial production.
“Our partnership with Birla Cellulose, a leading global producer of MMCFs, is significant as it demonstrates both Circ’s ongoing progress towards scalability as well as the industry’s commitment to investing in a truly circular economy,” said Peter Majeranowski, CEO of Circ, which is based in Danville, Va., once a center of the U.S. textile production.
Birla Cellulose’s cellulosic MMCF’ are produced through its flagship company Grasim Industries Limited.
Dr. Aspi Patel, chief technology officer of Grasim Industries Limited, said the initiative with Circ partnership reflects the company’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
“By combining Circ’s cutting-edge recycling technology with our cellulosic fibers, we are significantly enhancing the potential for a truly circular economy,” Patel added.