The Port of Barcelona has unveiled a pioneering plastic recycling centre, the result of a strategic collaboration between MB92 Group, Pinmar, and the Barcelona Port Authority. Officially launched in May 2025, this initiative marks a major step forward in the local maritime industry’s transition toward a circular economy and reduced plastic waste.
The new 200-square-metre facility, situated in the port’s industrial zone, is equipped to process over 100 tonnes of plastic waste annually. It primarily targets the plastic generated during superyacht refit and maintenance projects—an area historically plagued by recycling challenges due to contamination.
Next level recycling
Traditionally, plastic waste from yacht refits—often tainted with paint and other residues—was considered non-recyclable. However, the new centre leverages advanced technology from KITECH recycling solutions, which enables waterless, chemical-free decontamination using physical manipulation and infrared filtration. This innovation transforms contaminated plastic into clean, shredded flakes that can be repurposed for a wide range of industrial applications.
Marc Hervás, Sustainability Manager at MB92 Group, highlighted the significance of this breakthrough:
“We’ve made real progress in waste classification and material reuse, but this centre elevates our sustainability efforts to a whole new level. It’s a powerful example of what can be achieved through collaboration and innovation.”
A collaborative approach
The project is the result of more than a year of intensive research and development, involving recycling consultants, materials scientists, and equipment manufacturers. MB92 Group, a global leader in superyacht refit and maintenance, led the initiative in partnership with Pinmar, a division of GYG Ltd.
Remy Millott, CEO of GYG, underscored the strategic value of the project:
“Plastic, when managed responsibly, is an incredibly efficient material. This facility gives us full visibility and control over its lifecycle, ensuring transparency and accountability throughout the recycling process.”
BCN Port Innovation
The official launch event, hosted by BCN Port Innovation in mid-May, brought together industry leaders, environmental advocates, and local officials. The event spotlighted the innovative technologies being deployed within the port to support plastic recycling and circular economy practices.
Interactive exhibits and educational displays on plastic pollution and sustainability were featured, with local schools invited to participate—reinforcing the project’s strong community engagement ethos.
Miquel de la Mano, Technical Director at BCN Port Innovation, praised the initiative in his opening remarks:
“This project reflects our vision for a greener, more responsible port. It’s not just about reducing waste—it’s about setting a new benchmark for industrial sustainability.”
Looking ahead
The recycling centre represents just the first phase of a broader sustainability roadmap. As operations begin, the facility will employ local individuals at risk of social exclusion, offering both environmental and socio-economic benefits to the community.
MB92 and Pinmar have already hinted at a second phase, which may involve expanding the centre’s capabilities or replicating the model at other locations, including MB92’s facilities in La Ciotat and the Middle East.
Meanwhile, the Port of Barcelona continues to position itself as a hub for green innovation. This project joins a growing portfolio of environmental initiatives, including emissions reduction programs, renewable energy integration, and marine biodiversity protection.
A Model for Sustainable Industry
As the maritime industry faces mounting pressure to adopt sustainable practices, the MB92-Pinmar recycling centre stands out as a practical, scalable solution. It demonstrates the power of collaboration in addressing complex environmental challenges while maintaining the high standards required in superyacht maintenance.
For the local community, the project delivers not only environmental gains but also economic and educational opportunities. It reinforces Barcelona’s reputation as a forward-thinking, eco-conscious city—one that leads by example in the global transition toward sustainability.
