Recycling Challenges: Five Corporate Solutions in Action
Corporate solutions are crucial in driving the development of innovative technologies and practices that address key challenges in recycling.
Despite ongoing consumer efforts, recycling rates have not shown significant improvement over the past two decades. However, some companies have carved out profitable niches by addressing the recycling of materials traditionally deemed non-recyclable, turning these challenges into both economic and sustainable opportunities.
You can also read: TERRA is Tackling the Plague of E-waste
Featured Innovators in Recycling:
1. TerraCycle
TerraCycle collaborates with both individual collectors and large corporations to transform hard-to-recycle materials into new products. Courtesy of TerraCycle.
Location: New Jersey, USA
TerraCycle is celebrated for its unique capability to recycle a vast array of waste types. From cigarette butts to snack wrappers, the company collaborates with individual collectors and major corporations alike, transforming hard-to-recycle materials into new products. Operating in over 20 countries, TerraCycle is pivotal in advancing the circular economy by redefining waste. Consumers interested in participating can find collection program locations here.
2. Loop Industries
Location: Terrebonne, Quebec, Canada
Loop Industries has developed a groundbreaking patented technology that converts plastic waste into high-purity, virgin-quality PET plastic and polyester fiber. This technology not only removes dyes and contaminants but also processes all types of PET and polyester fiber waste, including those previously considered unrecyclable. Loop’s collaboration with top global beverage companies aims to improve packaging sustainability significantly, a critical endeavor given that currently, only 1% of polyester fibers are recycled. More on their technology here.
3. Ecovative Design
Location: Green Island, New York, USA
Specializing in biodegradable solutions, Ecovative Design leverages biological processes to create environmentally friendly materials that serve as alternatives to conventional plastics. Their innovations include biodegradable packaging and other sustainable products that contribute to reducing ecological footprints. Learn more about their offerings here.
4. Agilyx
Location: Tigard, Oregon, USA
Agilyx leads the way in converting non-recyclable and low-value plastic waste into high-quality crude oil through advanced chemical recycling processes. This not only diverts plastic from landfills but also minimizes the need for new oil extraction, thereby reducing environmental impact.
5. Novoloop
Novoloop developed advanced technologies to upcycle TPU. Courtesy of Novoloop.
Location: Menlo Park, California, USA
Formerly known as BioCellection, Novoloop has developed advanced technologies to upcycle TPU, a commonly used yet challenging-to-recycle plastic, into valuable chemicals. These chemicals are then utilized to produce sustainable textiles and resins, pushing the boundaries of what is recyclable. Explore their products here.