What can refineries do with mazut-like residues?

Do Western refineries also produce mazut, and what can they do with it?

As a refining byproduct, it can become industrial feedstock, including for plastics, if facilities are set up to use it.

Refinery residues need not be discarded simply because they are unattractive marine fuels. The suggested alternatives include feedstock for plastics and other products when a plant is equipped to use them. A panel member adds that cheap natural gas often supplies the corresponding feedstock in the United States. The economic value therefore depends on processing capacity and competing feedstocks.