According to the US EPA, nearly 30% of all solid waste is comprised of containers and product packaging. Despite significant progress in Massachusetts, over 600,000 tons of plastic was disposed of in 2018, including single use items, rigid plastics, and film plastics. In an effort to achieve statewide waste reduction goals, MassDEP aims to reduce the disposal of packaging materials that are not readily reusable, recyclable, or compostable. Grist recently reported on one Massachusetts business’ efforts to eliminate disposable single-use packaging from its retail operations.

Located in Cambridge, Cleenland is a household and personal care products store focused on preventing waste at the source. Rather than stocking traditional single-use items, that often cannot be recycled due to their size and shape, the store only offers package-less products or items that can be sold in refillable containers. When making inventory decisions, the business considers the life cycle of the product itself, as well as the packaging materials. In addition to procurement practices that eliminate plastic and emphasize reusable, recyclable, and compostable products, the store educates customers on the importance of waste reduction and proper recycling techniques. Cleenland also facilitates take-back programs for recycling toothbrushes, razor blades, and corks.

RecyclingWorks in Massachusetts (RecyclingWorks) can help your business reduce waste and identify other opportunities to maximize recycling, reuse, and food waste diversion. To learn more about our no-cost assistance, call our hotline: (888) 254-5525 or email us at info@recyclingworksma.com.