Between green reindustrialisation and local initiatives, Normandy is positioning itself as a driving force in the circular economy. Major industrial investments, thriving reuse sectors, and declining waste volumes are already producing tangible results – though challenges remain.
A Regional Strategy Taking Root
Since 2018, Normandy has relied on its Regional Waste Prevention and Management Plan (PRPGD), which is integrated into the broader Regional Plan for Spatial Planning, Sustainable Development and Territorial Equality (SRADDET).
This plan sets a clear roadmap:
- Reduce waste at source,
- Promote sorting and reuse,
- Develop local recovery and recycling solutions.
To implement this strategy, the Region coordinates the Normandy Circular Economy Network (NECI), in partnership with ADEME and national authorities. This platform brings together local governments, businesses, and associations to share best practices and strengthen collaboration among stakeholders.
Sources:
• Région Normandie – Développer l’économie circulaire
• ADEME – Normandie Économie Circulaire (NECI)
Port-Jérôme: A Symbol of Industrial Reinvention
In Seine-Maritime, the town of Port-Jérôme-sur-Seine is shaping the future of Normandy’s industrial landscape.
The American company Eastman is investing nearly €850 million to build the world’s largest chemical recycling plant for polyester. The facility will recycle 160,000 tonnes of hard-to-treat plastics annually, creating 350 direct and 1,500 indirect jobs. Commissioning is scheduled for late 2025.
On the same site, Loop Industries (Canada) is developing another unit to produce 100% recycled PET resin — 70,000 tonnes per year — with 180 jobs planned.
These projects confirm Normandy’s growing appeal to major stakeholders in circular innovation and green industrial relocation.
Sources:
• Région Normandie – Projets Eastman et Loop Industries
• Le Monde – “Vu de Davos, une usine de recyclage normande symbole des maux de l’Europe verte”, 22 January 2025
A Region in Transition
Circular economy initiatives are becoming a cornerstone of Normandy’s sustainable transformation, blending economic attractiveness, innovation, and social cohesion.
While there is still room for progress, the region demonstrates that a different industrial path is possible — one that is more local, more resource-efficient, and more sustainable.
