Recycling: From Footwear to Flower Pots

While recycling has grown in popularity, polypropylene recycling has it challenges. According to Scott Drummond, account manager for Trinity Polymers, it has become increasingly difficult to find sources to recycle some plastics. “The market for plastics has changed over the years. While we continue to offer it as a service to our clients, it has become more difficult for us to find companies interested in polypropylene,” he added.

recycled footwear

Recycled footwear becomes patio furniture

During SOLO’s manufacturing process, we generate about 2 tons of polypropylene waste per year. The polypropylene is taken to Trinity Polymers’ plant in Hanover, Maryland where it’s sorted by color and unwanted materials are removed. The scrap is sold to companies that either grind or shred the material, depending on the their needs. This material is then sold as a raw material and becomes things like plastic pallets, flower pots, outdoor furniture, and other items.

Like SOLO, Trinity Polymers is a small, family-owned company with a team of about 40 people. They have been providing recycling services since the mid 70s. According to Scott, Trinity Polymers also recycles acrylic and polycarbonate/Lexan, vinyl siding and vinyl fencing, in addition to ferrous and non-ferrous metals.

 

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