SYNDIGO1 is one of the world’s largest mechanical recycling facilities for PE film
The facility’s opening was celebrated with an event attended by nearly 100 guests, including NOVA Chemicals CEO Roger Kearns, Novolex Chairman and CEO Stan Bikulege, Indiana Secretary of Business Affairs Mike Speedy, Indiana Governor Mike Braun, and local officials such as the Mayor of Connersville. Representatives from U.S. Senators and Congressman Jefferson Shreve, along with NOVA Chemicals’ Board, Novolex staff, customers, and engineering firms, also attended. The ceremony marked the completion of 22 months of planning and construction, positioning SYNDIGO1 as a leader in mechanical PE film recycling.
Roger Kearns, CEO of NOVA Chemicals, stated: “Our SYNDIGO1 facility is a tangible example of what motivation, collaboration, and market demand can do together. As of today, we’re not only a petrochemicals producer but also a recycler of polyethylene. We’re diverting plastic waste from landfills and turning it into new, quality products that help keep our food fresh or safely transport goods and materials to store shelves.” Indiana Governor Mike Braun added: “Indiana is proud to be the home of NOVA Circular Solutions’ new Mechanical Recycling Facility, which will be an industry leader in plastic film recycling. This facility will support around 125 Hoosier jobs and will be a great asset to the Connersville community as well as another world-class example of Indiana’s leadership in the materials industry.”
In July 2023, NOVA Chemicals partnered with Novolex to operate the facility, leveraging Novolex’s expertise in plastic film recycling. In 2024, SYNDIGO1 received a U.S. FDA Letter of Non-Objection, confirming its rLLDPE is suitable for food-contact applications. By April 2025, the facility earned Green Blue’s Recycled Material Standard certification, verifying 100% post-consumer recycled content. Three of four production lines are currently operational, with full capacity expected by the end of 2025.
The facility processes 400 bales of plastic film daily from U.S. retailers and distribution centers, diverting waste equivalent to filling four football fields annually. The recycled PE supports packaging for various applications, including food packaging compliant with FDA standards. NOVA Chemicals also donated $25,000 to the Fayette Community Foundation, matched by a $50,000 grant from the Lilly Endowment, to support local programs in education, health, and community development.
