Pragmatic and solution-oriented dialogue between politics and business (from left to right): Mark Schlick (Head of Economic Development and Real Estate, City of Pirmasens), Alexander Ege (Chief Technology Officer, RAMPF Advanced Polymers), Sebastian Bockmayer (Head of Operations Recycling Polyols, RAMPF Advanced Polymers), Marco Werth (Director Business Center Recycling Polyols, RAMPF Advanced Polymers), Florian Hörtreiter (Chief Operations Officer, RAMPF Advanced Polymers), and Markus Zwick (Mayor of the City of Pirmasens).

18. September 2026

Mayor Markus Zwick: “Politics Must Support Businesses, Not Hold Them Back”

Plastic recycling and pro-growth policies in focus during visit to RAMPF Advanced Polymers

Key Takeaways

  1. Pirmasens Mayor Markus Zwick visits RAMPF Advanced Polymers to learn about the chemical recycling of polyurethane and PET waste.
  2. Plastic recycling is essential for sustainability and securing the long-term supply of raw materials.
  3. Local government and industry emphasized the importance of business-friendly policies and reduced bureaucracy to drive innovation and growth.

 

During a tour of the company's facility in Pirmasens-Gersbach, Markus Zwick gained insights into RAMPF's chemical recycling processes, which convert polyurethane and PET waste into high-value raw materials for new applications.

These recycled materials are used in insulation products and RAMPF's board materials for model and mold making. The company is recognized as a global technology leader in this field, making a significant contribution to the circular economy.

There is no alternative to plastic recycling, both from a sustainability perspective and to ensure the future supply of raw materials. With its innovative technology, RAMPF is a strong player in Pirmasens and far beyond. Companies like RAMPF are key drivers of growth, employment, and competitiveness.

Markus Zwick, Mayor of the City of Pirmasens

Recently re-elected with 81.4 percent of the vote, the mayor also highlighted the importance of pro-business policies. Supporting companies remains one of his top priorities, including cutting red tape and facilitating investment:

The role of politics is to support the economy, not slow it down.

More Than €1 Million Invested to Strengthen Growth and Capabilities

Florian Hörtreiter, Chief Operations Officer of RAMPF Advanced Polymers, reaffirmed the company's commitment to expanding its recycling activities:

We are fully committed to both closed-loop and open-loop chemical recycling and to our Pirmasens site. Demand for sustainable raw materials continues to grow, and we see significant opportunities ahead. That is why we recently invested more than €1 million in process and infrastructure improvements, as well as expanding our logistics, production, and laboratory capacities. Further investments are already planned. We greatly value the close and trusted partnership with the city administration. Their support is an important factor in our continued growth and development.