Facility Details:

The ASU Circular Plastics Microfactory aims to transform the recycling value chain, accelerate circular economy efforts and develop skilled 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. 

• LED by ASU Rob and Melani Walton Sustainability Solutions Service in partnership with City of Phoenix, Goodwill of Central and Northern Arizona (GCNA), and Hustle PHX
• Operating from a 10,000-square-foot sub-leased space at Goodwill’s retail operations center in Phoenix
• Closed-Loop Circular Economy Model: The microfactory is a complete circular solution, from plastic waste collection, sorting and processing to manufacturing new products at the local and/or regional level to a reintegration of the core materials should the product be deemed to no longer be of value.
• Public Awareness and Education: As a physical demonstration of a circular economy, the microfactory makes circularity tangible and is an educational tool to teach communities about the importance of recycling, waste reduction and circular economy principles, creating a long-lasting cultural impact that will help companies reach their sustainability goals faster.
• Customizable, Scalable and Distributed Model: The microfactory is modular, and even mobile, scaling circular solutions that can meet an array of needs. 
• Collaboration: Backed by the research and development of ASU, repeatedly recognized as the most innovative university in the nation, the microfactory benefits from continuous cutting-edge exploration and development in circular economy practices, giving it a competitive advantage in the sustainability space.

For more information, please visit https://sustainabilitysolutions.asu.edu