Burlington Businessman Seeks Plastic-to-Diesel Demonstration Site

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A Burlington, Iowa businessman named Jonathan Hazell, the CEO of Great River Fuels, Inc., is seeking to lease a city-owned property to demonstrate a new system that can convert plastic waste into diesel fuel. Hazell presented his proposal to the Burlington City Council, stating that securing the site is necessary to showcase the technology to potential investors. If the initial demonstration is successful, Hazell plans to pursue purchasing a larger facility to scale up the operation, as two investor groups have already expressed interest in the project.

Why it matters

This project represents a potential breakthrough in addressing the growing global plastic waste crisis by converting it into a usable fuel source. If successful, it could provide a sustainable solution for plastic recycling and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. The demonstration site would also bring economic development opportunities to Burlington.

The details

Hazell's system melts the plastic waste into a soup-like material before introducing additives to create the diesel fuel. He is seeking a six-month lease on a city-owned property at 1106 Washington Street to showcase the technology. If the initial demonstration is successful, Hazell plans to pursue purchasing the former GE/ABB facility on Agency Street to scale up the operation.

• Hazell presented his proposal to the Burlington City Council on Monday, February 10, 2026.
• Hazell is seeking a six-month lease on the city-owned property at 1106 Washington Street.

What they’re saying

What’s next

If the initial demonstration at the 1106 Washington Street site is successful, Hazell plans to pursue the purchase of the former GE/ABB facility on Agency Street to scale up the plastic-to-diesel fuel operation.