Hassan Abbaszadeh, speaking at the conference “Plastic Pollution Crisis:
New Challenges and Opportunities”, said Iran’s petrochemical capacity
stands at around 100 million tonnes a year and is targeted to reach 131 million
tonnes under the seventh development plan. However, only about 10% of current
capacity is devoted to polymers, despite their higher value compared with basic
petrochemical products.
“While methanol sells for about $300 per tonne, general-purpose polymers
fetch close to $1,000 and advanced polymers can reach $2,000,” Abbaszadeh said.
“This clearly shows the need to complete the value chain and move toward
advanced polymer production.”
He added that the global plastic pollution crisis, although driven largely
by mass production in developed countries, has become a shared responsibility.
“Iran’s role must be assessed in line with its contribution to the problem and
its technological capabilities,” he said.
Abbaszadeh called for fair terms in any future global plastic treaty,
stressing the need for technology transfer and equitable financing mechanisms
to help countries under sanctions meet environmental obligations.
The petrochemical chief also urged greater investment in recycling
infrastructure, public awareness campaigns and research into eco-friendly
polymers. “Plastics cannot be eliminated altogether, especially in healthcare
and essential industries, but their use must be efficient and aligned with
circular economy principles,” he said.
He thanked Iran’s environment department, foreign ministry and polymer
industry associations for cooperation on the issue, pledging that Tehran would
reflect both its commitments and challenges to the international community.