The Impact of Glass Recycling in Northwest Ohio
In a world increasingly focused on sustainability, local initiatives often make the most significant difference. Indeed, the Stansley family’s commitment to recycling and sustainability runs deep, with roots in the region’s glass-making industry dating back to 1975.
A Commitment to the Environment and Community
We established Recycle Services to address the growing challenges posed by glass waste in the “Glass City” community. With additional facilities in Michigan and Tennessee, we have become a cornerstone of local recycling efforts. Our mission is not just about recycling glass; it’s about fostering a legacy for future generations. As Jeff Stansley, President and Co-founder, emphasizes, this commitment to sustainability stems from a desire to protect the home we share with our children and grandchildren.
Recycled glass is a valuable resource for manufacturers such as Owens-Corning and Owens-Illinois. Using recycled glass reduces energy consumption and carbon emissions, making it a vital component in the production of new glass products. However, the process of cleaning the glass to a reusable state is complex and demanding.
The Eight-Step Glass Recycling Process
Recycle Services has developed a comprehensive eight-step process to ensure that the glass we recycle is free from contaminants, including paper, plastic, and metals. That process is the result of collaboration with engineering teams worldwide and insights from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), culminating in a state-of-the-art facility in Sylvania. Our multimillion-dollar investment marks a significant commitment not just to our operations, but to the community’s sustainability efforts.
Moreover, Recycle Services continually seeks to enhance our processes and minimize our carbon footprint. A recent innovation includes the re-engineering of our glass heater to use propane, a cleaner energy source that further reduces emissions.
Job Creation and Community Support
Beyond our recycling efforts, Recycle Services makes a significant contribution to the local economy by employing over 90 professionals in glass recycling. Those high-paying industrial careers bolster the community, and our philanthropic support for initiatives such as Avenues for Autism and Young Life exemplifies our dedication to giving back.
One standout initiative, the Glass Recycling In Toledo (G.R.I.T.) program, aims to streamline the collection of glass waste. By partnering with local organizations and providing accessible drop-off locations throughout the community, Recycle Services makes it easier than ever for residents to participate in recycling efforts. “Just look for the white bin,” says Alicia Maxwell, Marketing Coordinator for “G.R.I.T., highlighting the program’s user-friendly approach.
Educating the Community
Public education programs play a crucial role in ensuring the success of recycling initiatives. Recycle Services hosts workshops and collaborates with organizations like Keep Toledo Beautiful to educate the community, particularly the youth, about the importance of glass recycling. Through these efforts, we aim to create a culture of sustainability that resonates with future generations.
Looking to the Future
With over 200 million pounds of glass diverted from local landfills each year, Recycle Services is making a tangible impact on both the environment and the local economy. Our initiatives not only promote a sustainable approach to glass recycling but also foster community engagement and awareness.
