Environmental sustainability is a pressing concern in today’s world, and businesses are increasingly looking for innovative ways to reduce waste. RAPAC, the largest recycler of polystyrene in the United States, recognizes the crucial role of recycled resins in this transformative process. By establishing and supporting recycling and densifier programs nationwide, RAPAC is championing the use of recycled resins to minimize waste, conserve resources, and promote a sustainable future.
Our robust material collection processes allow waste materials from manufacturing processes to still hold value and potential for reuse. By implementing efficient collection systems, RAPAC gathers large quantities of polystyrene that would otherwise end up in landfills or incinerators. This process not only prevents valuable materials from being wasted but also reduces the demand for virgin resources.
Nonetheless, RAPAC's commitment to a circular economy goes beyond material collection. Our customers reap the benefits of using recycled resins in product manufacturing. Not only does it reduce the environmental footprint, but it also offers cost-effective solutions for businesses. Recycled resins often require less energy and resources compared to the production of virgin resins, resulting in cost savings that can be passed on to consumers. This creates a compelling incentive for both the entire supply chain to embrace sustainable practices. By incorporating recycled resins into production, RAPAC ensures that valuable resources are given a new lease on life – further reducing reliance on virgin materials.
Advantages throughout the supply chain
Recycled resins are used for the manufacturing of specific products, showcasing the viability and importance of using repurposing materials for food contact or non-food contact applications. Let's explore some key advantages:
Resource Conservation: By substituting virgin resins with recycled resins, we can minimize the extraction and consumption of natural resources. This reduces the strain on ecosystems, preserving biodiversity, and protecting delicate environments.
Waste Reduction: Incorporating recycled resins into the production cycle helps to divert waste from landfills, reducing the need for additional landfill space. This, in turn, minimizes the environmental risks associated with waste disposal and fosters a cleaner and healthier environment.
Positive Consumer Perception: In an era where conscious consumerism is on the rise, companies that embrace sustainable practices gain a competitive advantage. In fact, McKinsey & Co. reports that 78% of U.S. consumers say that a sustainable lifestyle is important to them.
Collecting and repurposing resins exemplifies the transformative power of recycling. This approach not only reduces waste and conserves resources but also offers cost-effective and environmentally responsible solutions for businesses and consumers alike. This process demonstrates the potential for a closed-loop system that minimizes waste generation and maximizes resource efficiency.
By actively participating in the circular economy, RAPAC is paving the way for a more sustainable and resilient future. Together, we can create a circular economy that benefits businesses, consumers, and the planet as a whole. If you’d like to join us in diverting millions of pounds of polystyrene from landfills to make EcoSix™ products, contact us today.