Doğa Expands PET Bottle Recycling Capacity in Türkiye

Istanbul-based construction firm Doğa has launched a cutting-edge PET bottle recycling facility in Kırklareli, Türkiye. Operating under the name Doğapet, the facility features two advanced Starlinger recycling lines, producing up to 28,000 tons of food-grade recycled PET annually. This investment highlights Doğa's commitment to promoting sustainability through innovative recycling technologies.

The new facility in Kırklareli operates two Starlinger recoSTAR PET 165 HC iV+ recycling lines, capable of processing 3.6 tons of bottle-grade recycled PET pellets per hour. Sustainable construction methods and renewable energy sources are key components of the facility’s design.

"Regulations prescribing the use of raw materials obtained through recycling are coming into effect in more and more countries. We also expect regulations in Türkiye to be tightened within the framework of zero waste targets in the coming years," stated Selçuk Gökhan Gerlikhan, General Manager of Doğapet.

The Starlinger PET recycling process at Doğapet is certified for food-grade applications by international regulatory bodies such as the FDA and EFSA. This enables the production of high-quality recycled PET suitable for food and beverage containers.

Though Turkish regulations currently restrict mechanically recycled PET from being used in food packaging, legislative changes are expected by 2025. Doğapet sources its post-consumer PET bottles from local waste collection services, with plans to integrate supply through an upcoming government-mandated bottle deposit system.

Key Features of Doğapet's Recycling Operation:

• Processing Capacity: 3.6 tons of rPET per hour
• Annual Output: 28,000 tons of food-grade recycled PET
• Technology: Two Starlinger recoSTAR PET 165 HC iV+ lines
• Sustainability Focus: Use of renewable energy and eco-conscious construction
• Certifications: Approved by FDA, EFSA, and major global brands

"When we are ready to increase capacities, we will also process material from outside Türkiye if necessary," added Gerlikhan.

The recycled PET produced at Doğapet is expected to meet the needs of global beverage and water companies. This development aligns with growing European market demands due to the EU Single-Use Plastics Directive coming into effect in 2025.

"We have made an investment at the most appropriate time to provide environmentally friendly solutions to changing needs in Türkiye," Gerlikhan stated. "The demand for recycled, bottle-grade raw materials in Türkiye is high and expected to grow, particularly in the EU."