Facing the future: Martin Doherty explores the challenging road to decarbonisation

As Encirc continues its journey toward decarbonisation and a fully circular manufacturing model, the road ahead presents both exciting opportunities and complex challenges, from transforming energy systems to reimagining production processes.

At the heart of this transformation is Martin Doherty, Director of Energy Transition at Encirc, who will play a key role in steering these efforts. Martin spoke recently about the scale of the task ahead and the need for innovation, collaboration, and long-term thinking to meet our sustainability ambitions.

His leadership marks a significant step forward in Encirc’s commitment to shaping a greener, more resilient future for glass manufacturing and the wider industry.

With a career that has taken him from chemical and environmental engineering through to public policy, EU-funded projects, and most recently energy resource management, Martin brings a unique blend of technical expertise and strategic insight to the role.

“Moving from chemical to environmental engineering while studying really set the direction of travel for my career,” he explains.

“Working in local government taught me that engineering solutions are often the easy part; the real challenge is bringing people with you. That experience sparked my interest in behaviour change, policy, and regulation.”

Martin says he was particularly drawn to Encirc, a Vidrala Group company, because of its proven commitment to sustainability.

“After an amazing learning opportunity with CASE, the chance to put theory into practice was the major appeal. I’ve had a long association with Encirc and know their dedication to sustainability isn’t just words on a page. It’s demonstrated through years of tangible action to reduce their footprint. To be given the opportunity to assist in perhaps the greatest challenge yet, moving away from fossil fuels while driving circularity, was impossible to resist.”

The Challenge

Encirc continues to lead in sustainable glass manufacturing through forward-thinking decarbonisation projects such as:

• Biofuel and Recycled Glass Trials: Encirc has previously trialled the use of ultra-low-carbon biofuels and 100% recycled glass in its Northern Ireland plant to create the most sustainable bottles in the world. Going forward Encirc is partnering with organisations with the intention of using low carbon bio-fuels to power its NI furnaces in the future
• Hydrogen-Powered Furnaces: Encirc is planning to use ultra-low carbon furnaces at its Cheshire site from 2029 onwards. These will be fuelled by low-carbon hydrogen and electricity, supplied via the HyNet industrial cluster.

Martin commented: “UK manufacturing now faces a pivotal moment, bold decisions must be made to embrace innovative technologies that will drive down emissions. I’m thrilled to be joining Encirc at such a transformative time, as the company leads the way in decarbonising glass bottle production.

“Glass is an essential, endlessly recyclable material, and I’m proud to be spearheading our energy transition strategy.”

For Martin, the path forward must begin with public understanding and collective action.
“The best place to start is with education. People need to know not just the challenges but also the opportunities. We will inevitably get some things wrong, but the key is to adapt quickly and keep moving forward as a team. We must also ensure the rewards of transition are felt by everyone in society.

“As Plato observed, procrastination isn’t about lack of knowledge but because desire or passion overcomes reason. Now is the time to act with reason,” he concluded.