Frequently asked questions

Geocycle provides scientifically proven waste management solutions for municipalities and industries. At the same time, we advance sustainable construction.

We rethink waste by transforming it into resources, reducing carbon emissions and natural resource consumption, recycling materials and recovering the non-recyclable.

Geocycle recycles materials that can be recycled. For the non-recyclables, we pioneered the co-processing method for end-of-life materials by utilizing the cement kilns. The company developed innovative industrial and municipal waste management solutions for its customers. 

As part of the Holcim Group, Geocycle leverages this experience to deliver large-scale, practical and low-cost solutions by recovering and recycling waste. 

Together, we work with local authorities to develop sustainable and highly compliant waste management protocols, guidelines and processes. Our methods are supported by the United Nations Environment Program, the Secretariat of the Basel Convention, the Cement Sustainability Initiative and others.

Co-processing is a globally recognized technology used to treat waste in energy-intensive industries, such as cement. It transforms waste materials by applying high temperatures for an extended time. 

During co-processing, the minerals found in waste replace limestone, clay or iron, while the combustion provides the energy needed for clinker production. As a result, 100% of the waste input is recycled and recovered without producing residue.

Co-processing has been used globally for more than 40 years as a waste management solution. It is backed by several international bodies and follows strict regulations, standards and environmental permits to ensure health and safety for people and the environment. 

Trials conducted in cement kilns have confirmed that waste does not impact kiln emissions or the final product. The Basel Convention approved it for the disposal of hazardous and non-hazardous waste, while the European Commission has advised Member States to consider co-processing as a circular economy tool.

A wide range of waste materials is suitable for treatment, including non-hazardous and hazardous industrial waste, sorted municipal waste and agricultural residues. 

Common waste sources include: 

• Shredded solid waste 
• Tires 
• Plastics 
• Glass 
• Tiles 

Due to high emissions, health and safety provisions, negative impact on kiln operations and waste hierarchy principles, some materials are banned. 

These materials include: 

• Radioactive waste
• Asbestos-containing waste 
• Explosives, ammunition and weapons 
• Anatomical medical waste 
• Electronic waste (e-waste) 
• Whole batteries 
• Waste of unknown or unpredictable composition, including unsorted municipal waste

To reduce CO₂ emissions, Geocycle transforms waste into lower carbon resources to decrease the use of fossil fuels and carbon-intensive materials for energy or carbon intensive industry.  

Our technology also helps customers reduce greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) by diverting waste from landfills.

Geocycle promotes a circular economy by recycling raw materials from locally generated municipal and industrial end-of-life waste materials, keeps materials in use at their highest value, enabling sustainable construction to preserve limited virgin materials.  

We also recycle materials that can be recycled and recover the thermal energy from non-recyclables, with zero residue left behind.

Waste management diverts waste from landfills and waterways, ensuring its safe and sustainable management. 

By utilizing local existing cement kilns, it requires zero investments from the local authorities for setting up new waste treatment facilities. Plus it contributes to the economic development around management facilities by creating local jobs in waste collection and treatment. 

Local commitments to waste management raise knowledge and awareness of sustainability and improve the livelihoods of communities around the world.