DECATUR — State Senator Doris Turner celebrates the creation of more than 125 jobs coming to Decatur which will produce materials used in the creation of biodegradable, eco-friendly plastics used in everyday products.

“This new venture will create good-paying jobs and stimulate economic growth in Decatur,” said Turner (D-Springfield). “This is an excellent opportunity to bring growth to the region and revitalize our communities. Additionally, a shift towards biodegradable, eco-friendly plastics promotes sustainability and provides our communities with a brighter tomorrow.”

GreenWise Lactic, the first of the two joint ventures, will produce up to 150,000 tons of high-purity corn-based lactic acid annually. ADM will be the majority owner of GreenWise – which is contributing the fermenting capacity available at its Decatur bioproducts facility to the venture. Lactic acid has a broad range of uses including cosmetics, food, feed and bioplastics.

“Sustainability is one of the enduring global trends that is powering ADM’s strategy and growth,” said ADM CEO Juan R. Luciano. “We’re pleased to expand our collaboration with LG Chem, and we’re excited at the opportunity to bring this new intended production and all of its economic benefits to Decatur, our North American headquarters.”

LG Chem Illinois Biochem, the second venture, will build a new facility that will use product from GreenWise Lactic to produce approximately 75,000 tons of polylactic acid per year. Polylactic acid is a biodegradable, eco-friendly plastic.

“The establishment of this joint venture is a sustainable growth strategy that can directly contribute in solving environmental issues such as climate change and waste plastics,” said LG Chem Chief Executive Officer Hak Cheol.

Both lactic acid and PLA have seen significant growth in global demand as more consumers and companies seek sustainable products. The joint ventures are expected to create more than 125 jobs.

“The LG Chem Project is a major victory for Decatur and the environment,” said Decatur Mayor Julie Moore Wolfe. “It’s more than 100 new jobs, $400 million invested, and their innovative green technology is synergistic with ADM’s operations. Everybody wins. Today’s announcements would not have been possible without the coordinated efforts of the city, the State of Illinois, ADM and the Economic Development Corporation of Decatur and Macon County.”

Both ventures will participate in the State of Illinois’ Economic Development for a Growing Economy program, which provides incentives to job creators who plan to make large-scale investments in Illinois.

“Innovative companies continue to locate in Illinois because of our world-class infrastructure, skilled workforce and leadership in key industries, like biochemical production,” said DCEO Director Sylvia I. Garcia. “We’re looking forward to LG Chem and ADM’s innovative joint ventures locating in Decatur, which will create jobs, bring significant investment to the region and continue growth in this key sector.”

Pending required regulatory approvals, the joint ventures anticipate beginning operation in late 2025 or early 2026. Construction on the new facility is planned for 2023.