In today’s world, where plastic pollution and climate change are becoming increasingly severe, Rolex continues to embody the spirit of the Protecting the Earth · Unceasing Movement (Perpetual Planet Initiative) through tangible actions that support innovative projects with forward-thinking visions. Among those recognized and funded by the Rolex Awards is Novoloop, founded by Miranda Wang and Jeanny Yao. They have successfully established a pioneering plastic recycling factory in Surat, India, with an annual output of 70 tons, marking a new phase for chemical recycling technology on an industrial scale.
The core significance of this new factory isn’t just its ability to continuously operate its experimental conversion technology for over 100 hours. It also shines in its production process, which can reduce carbon emissions by up to 91%, showcasing a clear environmental advantage compared to traditional plastic manufacturing. Rolex isn’t just an observer of this technology’s birth; it serves as a pivotal force in taking it from the lab to the global market.
Novoloop focuses on tackling the significant challenges of recycling polyethylene waste worldwide. By breaking it down into chemical monomers, the material is then transported to China, where partners convert it into polyols and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), suitable for manufacturing high-end products like athletic shoes. This recycling system, which utilizes waste materials as raw inputs and spans a multinational production chain, has transitioned from design to production in just six months, representing one of the standout achievements supported by the Protecting the Earth · Unceasing Movement project.
Back in 2019, Miranda Wang was honored with the Rolex Awards for her groundbreaking research in breaking down polyethylene. This award is a flagship initiative by Rolex, aimed at promoting innovation and sustainability. Since her teenage years, she’s been an advocate for environmental action, meeting her partner Jeanny Yao in a high school recycling club. After a transformative visit to a waste treatment facility, they were motivated to tackle the fundamental issues within the recycling system using science. Over the years, despite the challenges of the pandemic, economic instability, and personal hurdles, they have stayed committed to leading the way in innovation.
This technological success marks another milestone for Rolex Protecting the Earth · Unceasing Movement. Since 2019, the initiative has been actively promoting collaborations with over 30 projects worldwide, spanning marine conservation, climate research, regenerative technologies, and medical innovation. On this long road to sustainable development, Rolex’s commitment never wavers. Whether it’s the photographers Cristina Mittermeier and Paul Nicklen, who protect the oceans in polar regions, or Dr. Andrew Bastawrous, who advocates for eye disease screening in Africa, the brand exemplifies a responsible attitude towards the future.
Novoloop’s pilot factory is just the beginning. Miranda Wang has already launched plans to expand production, anticipating that by 2030, they will process up to 175,000 tons of plastic waste, potentially reducing carbon emissions by around 800,000 tons each year. This initiative not only offers a fresh direction for the recycling industry but also provides a vital boost for the world as it grapples with the dual crises of plastic pollution and climate change.
Miranda Wang emphasized that this technology is not just a commercial venture; it is a mission that transcends generations. She stated: Today, I have a son who has just turned one, and I want to leave him a cleaner, more hopeful planet. This journey isn’t easy, but when I see others striving for this belief, especially partners like Rolex, I know we’re headed in the right direction..
With the support of Rolex, Novoloop’s story clearly demonstrates how a clear goal combined with unwavering execution can transform into globally impactful action. Moving forward, Rolex will continue to collaborate with innovators from diverse fields, extending the ideals of Protecting the Earth · Unceasing Movement to even more corners of the world.
