Bio-based high-density polyethylene (HDPE) produced by INEOS It was used to build the world’s first fully sustainable natural gas pipeline. The pipeline is operated by GRDF, the French gas utility network operator, and was installed using only low carbon footprint polymers.

The new pipeline was installed in Clermont Auvergne Metropolis, Clermont-Ferrand, France, as part of GRDF’s program to implement “green” pipelines and reduce carbon emissions. The pipeline is 1 kilometer long. It was built at three locations in the Clermont Auvergne metropolitan gas network.

The pipelines are manufactured by Olefins Polymers, a bio-based certified HDPE supply consisting of European INEOS pipelines. It is made from wood-processing residues from the paper industry, which are then converted into bio-naphthalene tallow oil. The tall oil is converted to bioethylene at the INEOS plant in Cologne and then transported to the INEOS Polymers plant in Lillo, Belgium, to produce bio-based HDPE.

The result is a polymer with amazing characteristics. It has been awarded the International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC) by an independent third-party organization because it has a lower carbon footprint than traditional fossil-based polymers. ISCC produces new materials from fossil fuel derived feedstocks instead of GRDFF ISCCC Construction Pipeline Production Plus Standard Certification.

Rob Ingram, CEO of INEOS Olefins Polymers North, said: “Congratulations to GRDF on their world first. At INEOS, we are proud to be part of this groundbreaking innovation and to be contributing to the reduction of carbon emissions and plastics. In addition to our work in waste treatment for the polyolefin industry, this is another example of our commitment to working with our partners to develop efficient and low-emission solutions for transporting essential utilities and goods around European cities. I’m Alexandre Pierru, GRDF Innovation Program Manager. “GRDF has demonstrated that biomethane (bio-based gas) can be distributed in biocertified polyethylene pipes. This is thanks to the collaboration with partners such as INEOS, who are strongly committed to finding solutions for decarbonizing raw materials for pipes.