As described by Forbes, Massachusetts-based Ocean Spray is one of the latest brands partnering with TerraCycle to reduce the disposal of single-use materials. Through this partnership, consumers can collect the empty flexible plastic packaging used for Ocean Spray snack products and send these items to TerraCycle for recycling using a pre-paid shipping label. Looking beyond…
The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) recently released proposed amendments to the solid waste disposal bans (310 CMR 19.000). These changes would add mattresses and textiles as materials that are banned from disposal in Massachusetts, and lower the threshold for the commercial organics ban so that it would apply to businesses generating one-half ton…
Resinate is a vertically integrated cannabis cultivator, based in Worcester, that operates dispensaries throughout western and central Massachusetts. Recently, the company contacted RecyclingWorks in Massachusetts (RecyclingWorks) for support with recycling at their 50,000 square foot facility in Douglas. Since an initial site visit with RecyclingWorks staff, Resinate has established a comprehensive recycling program that can…
Designers Choice is an importer and distributor of fresh cut flowers, with a 55,000 square foot facility located in Boston. The business receives shipments of flowers from South and Central America, assembles the flowers into bouquets and other arrangements, and ships these products to partners around the country. RecyclingWorks in Massachusetts (RecyclingWorks) began working with…
The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) Recycle Smart MA initiative is celebrating its second birthday this month, as highlighted by Waste360. Since 2018, this initiative has been increasing awareness around recycling in Massachusetts and empowering Bay Staters to collect the proper materials for recycling at home, school, and work, without introducing contamination from problem…
In Fall 2019, the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) released the Draft 2020-2030 Solid Waste Master Plan for public comment. The plan proposes aggressive goals for waste reduction, building on the 18 percent reduction in disposal per capita achieved from 2008 to 2018. This includes targeted reuse and recycling efforts for textiles, mattresses, and…
Belly of the Beast is a fast-casual restaurant in Northampton focused on using local ingredients and engaging in sustainable practices. Although operations were disrupted due to COVID-19, Belly of the Beast has been able to maintain a focus on waste reduction while strengthening ties to the local community and feeding those in need. Recently, Belly…
Multifamily property managers across the state are finding that as more people are staying home, so is their waste! A large part of that waste is actually resources, such as cardboard boxes and other materials that don’t belong in the trash. Increasing recycling is an important part of a healthy supply chain, as it provides…
If your business is resuming in-person operations after a period of closure, you may have questions about resuming your trash and recycling services. Here are some important tips to keep in mind as you reopen: Contact your waste hauler – It is critical to provide advanced notice to your waste hauler(s) that you need to…
RecyclingWorks in Massachusetts (RecyclingWorks) recently developed a new webpage that includes links to the most commonly referenced tip sheets, best management practices, and other resources on waste reduction, recycling, and food recovery. Some of the resources highlighted on this page include: Guidance for Businesses Contracting for Trash, Recycling, and Food Waste Services Single Stream Recycling…
