Recycling Product News January/February 2025, Volume 33, Number 1
C C E N T ® 4 7 0
DESIGNED FOR TWO-RAM BALERS
S T RONG PE OPLE .
S T RONG PR ODU C TS . S T RONG T IE S .
FE A T U RE S & B E N EF IT S
Accent W ire Tie is the largest supplier of baling wire and wire tier technology in the recycling and waste industry. Our leading line of bale packaging equipment includes the Accent 470® W ire Tier, featured on balers around the world and the Envirobale® bagging system for solid waste containment. Accent W ire Ties’ sales and service technicians teams have hands-on experience and stay up-to-date on the latest industry trends. Accent W ire Tie has forged the strongest ties in the industry since 1986.
Four-wheel drive design for exceptional performance and reliability
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Enjoy four days in sunny San Diego with inspiring speakers, the hottest trends, and world-class networking to expand your knowledge, build connections, and grow your business.
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Visionary Founder & Owner
Savannah Bananas
Closing Evening Celebration
Award-winning Mentalist & Entertainer
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20 COVER STORY
INDUSTRY COLLABORATION IS THE PATH TO IMPROVED AEROSOL RECYCLING
JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2025 | VOLUME 33 • NUMBER 1
EDITOR IN CHIEF Kaitlyn Till ktill@baumpub.com 604-291-9900 ext. 330
EDITOR Slone Fox sfox@baumpub.com 604-291-9900 ext. 335
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Contact: Editor Slone Fox at sfox@baumpub.com or 604-291-9900 ext. 335
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The new model 4 E-Z log Baler is just what mid size scrap yards have been asking for! Priced right for any yard — small, mid size, or large!
Like the Model 3, the NEW Model 4 has no set up time and a very low cost to operate. The one man operations are all handled from the newly designed cab. With the 400º rotation crane and a reach of 27’ adding the continuous rotation grapple, it makes loading the larger chamber a breeze.
Taking your loose scrap to a highly sought after shreddable log.
— Cycles in under 2 minutes!
— Produces up to 70 tons per day.
— Fully portable in the closed position.
— New seat design for more operator comfort.
FROM THE EDITOR
OLD PROBLEM, NEW LEGISLATION
As a fan of both fashion history and vintage clothing, not a day goes by where I don’t daydream about thrifting someone’s tattered old coat or beat-up jeans. Recently, I had the chance to bypass the thrift store entirely and go straight to the source: the rag house.
Usually tucked away in industrial zones, rag houses are facilities where discarded and donated clothing goes to be sorted, salvaged, and, hopefully, given a new life. Multi-coloured bales are stacked impossibly high, with floral prints, stripes, plaids, and everything in between pressed into fabric pancakes. The occasional rare gem stands out, but these are few and far between. It’s a little surreal, and perhaps the perfect metaphor for our fast-fashion world — potential buried under a lot of excess.
When donating something to charity, most people believe that it’s going to someone in need. The reality is that it’s more likely to end up in a rag house. Here, clothing is sorted and then directed into one of three streams: turned into rags, baled and shipped overseas, or sold to vintage stores.
In the world of vintage, access to these facilities is lucrative and typically by invitation only. Most of the people rummaging through the heaps of clothing are young and fashionable resellers competing with each other for old and valuable garments. This admiration for unique vintage pieces exists alongside a heap of similar modern garments that will never make it out of the rag house.
According to the David Suzuki Foundation, people consume 80 billion new pieces of clothing each year worldwide — a staggering number. However, a new bill in California addresses the growing issue of textile waste and could change how we dispose of our clothes by placing the responsibility on producers to create recycling systems for their products.
The bill, Senate Bill 707 or the Responsible Textile Recovery Act of 2024, is the first of its kind in the U.S. It requires producers of apparel, towels, bedding, and upholstery to establish and fund a statewide reuse, repair, and recycling program. Textile companies will need to form a producer responsibility organization that will create collection sites, mail-back programs, and drop-off locations for these items. Non-compliant companies will face penalties.
When donating
something to
charity, most people believe that it’s going to someone in need. The reality is that it’s more likely to end
up in a rag house. Here, clothing is sorted and then directed into one of three streams: turned into rags, baled and shipped overseas, or sold to vintage stores.
Details about how the system will work are unclear, since companies have until 2026 to create the organization responsible for designing these solutions. The program itself likely won’t be operational until at least 2028.
While the bill marks a significant step forward, its true impact remains to be seen. The road to implementing a largescale recycling program is long with many hurdles. However, if successful, this legislation could set a new precedent by shifting the burden of waste onto producers and forcing the industry to reconsider its throwaway culture.
SLONE FOX Editor
A LONG WAY TOGETHER
WHEREVER YOU ARE, BKT IS WITH YOU
For machinery operating in material-recycling centers, BKT has developed purpose-made tires, for different activities and able to face the most demanding environments.
The BKT’s recycling range includes tires for loaders, skid steers and telehandlers employed in handling operations in disposals and material-recycling environments, available in many sizes and variants to accomplish even the most difficult applications.
Joe Dias
Eastern Zone Manager
Directeur Régional, Est du Canada
BKT Tires (Canada) Inc.
Cell: 514-792-9220
Web: www.bkt-tires.com
THREE MORE VOLVO CE FACILITIES REACH LANDFILL-FREE STATUS
Three more of Volvo CE’s facilities have been designated as landfill-free, for a total of seven. The company aims for all its sites to achieve landfill-free status by the end of 2025.
In 2013, the company’s facility in Braås, Sweden — which specializes in the design and manufacturing of articulated haulers — became the first Volvo CE site to become carbon-neutral. The North American Shippensburg, Pennsylvania, facility followed suit in 2020.
Volvo CE’s sites in Shanghai and Belley, which produce crawler excavators and compact excavators respectively, and the Jinan Technology Center join facilities in Korea, Brazil, the U.S., and Sweden in reaching this milestone.
Certification has been awarded following a comprehensive audit by the Volvo Group Environmental Coordination Group. The certificate requires full management of all material waste streams, emphasizes ongoing improvements in line with the waste hierarchy principles, and demands that no waste ends up in landfills. Achieving zero waste to landfill is a critical step toward the company meeting its goal of net zero value chain greenhouse gas emissions by 2040 as part of its Science Based Targets initiative.
Each site faces its own unique set of challenges in waste management. Initiatives include collaborating with suppliers to eliminate unnecessary packaging; reusing and repurposing materials, such as converting plant and food waste into organic farming inputs or using waste for heating; and extracting maximum benefit from products before they become waste.
Comprehensive waste separation systems at every site ensure that as much waste as possible is recycled. Waste is separated, sorted, collected, classified, and weighed before being transported to waste contractors for recycling or disposal.
AMP AND WASTE CONNECTIONS
PARTNER TO PROCESS 62,000 TONS OF SINGLE-STREAM RECYCLING
AMP has signed a deal with Waste Connections to equip and operate one of Waste Connections’ recycling facilities located in Commerce City, Colorado. The facility is scheduled for commissioning in early 2026.
The Waste Connections facility will feature an AMP ONE system and leverage AMP Smart Sortation to optimize the processing of up to 62,000 tons of single-stream recycling annually. Through its provision of AMP Smart Sortation, AMP will operate and maintain the system. The facility will be fully integrated with AMP’s AI which will enable the automated sorting of single-stream recycling, extraction of targeted commodities, and production of custom feedstock blends.
“The system is flexible to our scale, sorting, and extended producer responsibility compliance needs, and can adapt as our commodity needs and waste stream changes,” says Mark Ceresa, division vice president for Waste Connections. “AMP offers us a unique way to enter this market by guaranteeing these capabilities on a pay-per-ton contract.”
The AMP ONE system will deliver high recovery rates, process certain material streams autonomously, and improve its throughput capacity over time with regular software updates. The system leverages continuous AI material and purity monitoring and sorting, replacing multiple screens to provide operational flexibility. This design allows the system to respond to problems, such as detecting jams or drops in performance, and optimize itself in real-time.
In 2020, AMP and Waste Connections entered into a longterm agreement to deploy 24 of AMP’s AI-guided robotics systems on container, fibre, and residue lines across numerous Waste Connections MRFs. In 2022, Waste Connections and AMP expanded their partnership with Waste Connections’ deployment of more than 50 of AMP’s systems.
COLLABORATION IS KEY TO RECYCLING SUCCESS SAYS WM REPORT
Based on a survey of more than 1,000 American consumers and businesses, the 2024 WM Recycling Report summarizes data on recycling behaviours and perceptions to better understand opportunities to bolster recycling education, investments, and accessibility.
Many Americans want to recycle, but some lack an understanding of how recycling works and the positive impact it can have on the environment. Many households across America have a high desire to recycle, with nearly half (44 percent) reporting that they are looking for ways to expand their recycling practices in the future. However, while 86 percent of people who recycle say they recycle plastic bottles and containers, one in ten are not confident that their plastics are actually recycled.
Americans are more likely to recycle when they have greater awareness, education, and access. Data showed 45 percent of respondents cite a lack of knowledge about what can and cannot be recycled as their biggest barrier, and 64 percent say if they knew more about what to recycle and how, their involvement would increase.
Where consumers live can have an outsized impact on their recycling habits. Rural areas face greater accessibility issues — 50 percent of respondents in rural areas reported dealing with more inconveniences that led to lower rates of recycling, such as having to drive long distances to recycle.
Creating products with recycled content can be a differentiator for brands and potentially drive consumer purchases. Data indicated that 75 percent of surveyed Americans report that they are more likely to buy products from companies that include recycled content in their products. However, as many as 60 percent of those same respondents report not having clarity on which brands use recycled content in their products, calling for additional education.
INTERCHANGE RECYCLING OPENS
NEW OIL RECYCLING DEPOT
Interchange Recycling has opened a new used oil recycling depot in Kelowna, B.C., at The Great Canadian Oil Change, which has received a 10-foot sea container with a 1,100-litre tank to store program materials.
“With the addition of this new recycling infrastructure, we’re able to manage these automotive materials more efficiently and safely,” said Mike Bernhardt, franchise owner of The Great Canadian Oil Change in Kelowna. “We’re now able to provide Kelowna residents and customers with a convenient, close-tohome solution to recycle used motor oil, antifreeze, and related
materials, ensuring they are properly handled and kept out of our environment and our local waterways.”
In 2023, Interchange Recycling collected 49,823,206 litres of used oil in B.C., and awarded 12 infrastructure grants. Used oil can be re-refined into new lubricants or converted into manufacturing materials and energy products.
Additionally, used oil filters that contain metal, can be recycled into products like rebar, nails, and wire. Used oil and antifreeze containers are recycled and used to manufacture new oil containers, drainage tiles, and parking curbs. Used antifreeze is refined and reused as new automotive antifreeze.
REMATTER NAMED TITLE SPONSOR OF REMA 2025 CONVENTION
In a first-of-its-kind collaboration, the Recycled Materials Association (ReMA) is partnering with ReMatter as the title sponsor for ReMA2025 – The Show. As part of this, ReMatter has also been named the Official Innovation Partner of the event.
As the presenting sponsor, the event will be officially titled ReMA2025 – The Show Powered by ReMatter. This partnership builds on an existing collaboration between ReMA and ReMatter, which has brought scrap software solutions to ReMA members across the industry.
The Canada Plastics Pact’s recent impact report provides an overview of the progress made by its partners in the third year of its mission to eliminate plastic waste and pollution in Canada. The report highlights achievements and progress in 2023, while also capturing the activities and initiatives undertaken in 2024.
Based on the most current and reliable data available, in 2022 it is estimated that Canada generated 1.96 million metric tons of plastic packaging in deposit return systems, residential systems, and industrial, commercial, and institutional (ICI)
sectors. This increase in plastic packaging production compared to previous years reflects the inclusion of ICI sectors, providing a first-ever comprehensive understanding of plastic packaging flows at a national level.
CARI NAMES NEW PRESIDENT AND CEO
The Canadian Association of Recycling Industries (CARI) has named Jacqueline Lotzkar as its new president and CEO, effective February 3, 2025. A longstanding advocate for the recycling and manufacturing sectors, Lotzkar brings extensive industry expertise to the role. Over the past four years, Lotzkar served as vice president at Pacific Metals Recycling International in Vancouver, B.C., where she played a key part in supporting the ownership transition and corporate sale of the 112-year-old family business. Lotzkar has also actively engaged with government officials in both Canada and the U.S. through her involvement with the Recycled Materials Association.
Size Reduction for Any Plastic
With the industry’s widest line of granulators and shredders, Herbold has a Size Reduction Solution that right for any application. Whether it’s clean or post-consumer materials, our systems quickly and effectively size reduce, PET waste, agricultural film, low bulk density material and even thick walled pipe. No challenge is beyond the capabilities of our equipment.
The Herbold Advantage
n Double Cross Cutting Action – Reduces Jams and Material Fines
n Adjustable Bed and Rotor Knives –Maintain Constant Cutting Circle
n Easy Access to the Grinding Chamber –Improved Maintenance, Screen Changes and Machine Cleanout
n Replaceable Armor Plating Inside the Cutting Chamber
n Faster, Safer Knife Changes – Adjustments Made in Jig Outside of Granulator
n Available Force Feed Mechanisms –Increase Throughput by up to 80% While Reducing Energy Consumption
SPOTLIGHT
Sierra International Machinery MATERIAL HANDLER
The T409E is a fully electric material handler powered by robust dual 1,240Ah batteries that deliver up to nine hours of operation on a single charge. The machine’s four distinct operating speeds allow operators to optimize performance and energy consumption based on the task at hand, ranging from Eco mode for minimal energy use to Power mode for maximum productivity. A 33-foot boom reach and an elevated cab height of 16 feet 5 inches ensure precision handling and operational visibility, while load sensing technology and a variable displacement pump provide control and efficiency.
EDGE Innovate
WASTE SHREDDER
The VS420E Hybrid shredder combines the mobility of a diesel-driven unit with the environmental and operational advantages of a stationary electric shredder. Replacing the conventional 310kW Cat engine with two 132kW electric motors, the VS420E delivers the same production capacity and torque as diesel/hydraulic units. A small 55kW diesel engine provides mobility for tracking and setup functions, while an additional 11kW auxiliary motor ensures full set-up capabilities in both Electric and Diesel/Hydraulic modes. The “Plug and Shred” feature enables quick connection to the grid, reducing set-up time and allowing for rapid, efficient operation.
MDS
SCALPING SCREEN
The M300 heavy-duty scalping screen has an aggressive double-deck grid designed for optimal performance in tough applications. Equipped with a robust T-Bar cassette top deck and mesh bottom deck, the machine delivers precise separation of materials, allowing operators to efficiently screen challenging materials. With a compact design and hydraulic folding main conveyor, the M300 is easy to transport between job sites. Additionally, the hydraulic grid raise system and a variable-speed collection conveyor provide added flexibility, allowing the machine to adapt to a wide range of materials and operating conditions.
Electric material handler
Shredder
Scalping screen
The 6500 is a heavy-duty down-swing drum chipper designed for high production and maximum flexibility. Rotor speeds are adjustable based on infeed material density and desired chip length to maximize throughput and product quality. With a frame that pivots on the undercarriage, the operator is able to adjust the infeed angle for varying feedstock or can raise and lower the discharge height to adjust the chip pile size or accommodate top load trailers. Maintenance is made easy with convenient service access. The split hog box opens over the centre to fully access the rotor and screens for simple knife changes.
for the company’s digital solutions and harnesses machine and material data to optimize sorting plant performance. Powered by real-time plant data and artificial intelligence, STADLERconnect is an integrated solution that adapts to varied plant configurations and needs. By automating various parts of the plant, STADLERconnect improves operational performance while reducing the workload for operators. STADLER’s material analysis tools increase transparency on both quantity and quality which enables consistent product quality while reducing the need for costly manual checks.
Tigercat CHIPPER
Digital platform
Chipper
THE ART OF SALVAGE
FROM METALS TO ZOMBIE WEAPONS, SCRAP FINDS A NEW LIFE AT CAPITAL SALVAGE
BY SLONE FOX, EDITOR
Walking into the Capital Salvage yard feels like stepping into an I Spy book. Everywhere you look, there’s something unusual, something artsy, or something that’s seen better days but still has a story to tell. Even the interview location — a rusty weight bench nestled among worn workout machines — embodies the yard’s dedication to repurposing. Everything has a place here, and nothing is too rusty to find new life.
This approach to repurposing is part of a long history of scrapyards being more than just the last stop for “junk.” Historically, scrapyards were lifelines for communities, offering both employment and resources when things were scarce.
These yards played a critical role during times of economic hardship, like the Great Depression and world wars, where scrap dealers provided critical resources through discarded materials. Salvagers have long had the ability to see value in what others might consider waste, keeping industries running and supporting communities.
A LEGACY IN SCRAP
This tradition of salvage is still alive today in owners Jen and Dov Dimant’s yard where there’s an appreciation for every piece of scrap that comes through the gate. Capital Salvage is one of the few yards in British Columbia — let alone East Vancouver — that focuses on salvage almost as much as it does on recycling. While many other yards have adopted more corporate practices, the Dimant’s operation is a throwback to an older, more personalized style of doing business.
“This is very much a dying-breed style of a scrapyard,” says Dov Dimant. “There’s maybe one other like us in Vancouver. Down the street, there used to be five scrapyards, so we called them the Powell Street Boys. Just go down to Powell Street and there were three side-by-side and two of them were brother-in-laws. Growing up, my grandfather’s friends were scrappers.”
The camaraderie between inner-city scrapyard owners created a tight-knit community that Dimant grew up around, even before he fully understood his future involvement in the business. However, the landscape has since changed significantly — larger companies have absorbed the smaller players, and many scrapyards have been priced out of the city due to the escalating costs of doing business.
Dimant realized early on that he wouldn’t be competing with the big players in the industry, and that’s fine with him. “There’s plenty of scrap to go around. There’s a place in the
industry chain for us where we can succeed and the big guys can succeed,” says Dimant. “In fact, they want us to succeed in doing a lot of the gathering and the sorting for them. We sell it to them, so it works for both of us.”
BUILT ON AUTHENTICITY
Dimant’s approach to running his yard is distinctly personal, marked by a blend of practicality and humour. He credits the growth of his business to a simple but effective philosophy: staying true to himself.
“You go to another scrapyard and you’re lucky if you can find a manager to talk to, let alone someone in ownership,” Dimant explains. “Here, people are coming in and they’re dealing directly with the owner.”
Even during tough times, he continued to invest in maintaining this connection. “I took it to heart — spend money to make money,” Dimant says, explaining how, even when finances were tight, he continued investing in customer relationships. He’d spend thousands on holiday gifts like liquor and Canucks tickets, distributing them according to the scale of business customers brought in.
“It didn’t matter if it was someone pushing a shopping cart or someone driving in with a dump truck full of material. I acknowledged my appreciation,” Dimant adds.
A big fan of The Walking Dead, Dov Dimant has amassed an assortment of swords, knives, and other weapons.
THE ART OF SALVAGE
As one of the few scrapyards in the area open for public browsing and buying, Dimant’s yard attracts a diverse crowd — daily regulars, tradespeople, and artists hunting for unique materials.
“Everything has a price,” he jokes. “I’ll sell you my forklift if you offer me enough.”
The mix of people visiting the yard mirrors Dimant’s own eclectic tastes. “I have two or three different things I like to keep,” he says. “I love any random artwork, metal art, even if I don’t necessarily like the piece itself. I just like that it’s metal artwork, and I like that someone has spent some time on it and there was some love and care put into it for whatever reason.”
His collection also includes a variety of old religious artifacts from all different cultures. Whether a Buddha statue or the Star of David, everything has its place. A big fan of The Walking Dead, he’s also amassed an assortment of swords, knives, and other weapons — some functional, some just interesting. “I’m ready for the zombie apocalypse,” he jokes about the collection that’s “kind of gotten out of control.”
A standout feature of Dimant’s yard is its collection of misfit art — sculptures and oddities that didn't quite make it to the gallery but found their perfect spot here. Dimant admits to having no artistic ability of his own but credits his team for discovering these one-of-a-kind pieces both in the yard and through their pickup service which includes everything from routine material
collection on construction and demolition sites to helping families clear out homes. Some of the most fascinating finds come from estate cleanups, Dimant says.
BACK ALLEY, BIG IMPACT
Dimant’s creativity isn’t limited to the yard — it extends to video productions which have become a hallmark of his operation. His first video came as part of a local business directory ad package, back when businesses were just starting to establish an online presence.
“I was always the class clown, so my goal is always to make someone laugh,” Dimant says. That lighthearted approach shaped a series of fun, attention-grabbing videos, including one where he dressed as Captain Salvage in a cape, and another where he donned a pink tutu. “It’s just all these little anti-corporate things that catch people’s attention,” he says.
These videos encapsulate the creativity of the Capital Salvage team while also serving a practical purpose. With the yard tucked away in an alley and no main street presence, standing out is critical. “Once people find out about us, they’re in love with us,” Dimant says. “But getting noticed is the hard part.”
QUICK TURNAROUND IS KEY
To ensure the yard stays efficient, quick turnaround is key. Capital Salvage operates on a high-efficiency model with no
A standout feature of the yard is its collection of sculptures and oddities.
Dimant’s collection includes dozens of brass statues and figures.
bales stacked up, waiting to be processed, or left to accumulate. “I’m not playing the markets. It’s in and out,” Dimant explains. “I buy all week, and by Thursday or Friday, I’m selling, trying to be mostly empty by the weekend.”
The yard is open seven days a week, creating a non-stop cycle of material coming in and going out. “For processing, it’s about cleaning materials — removing steel from aluminum and cleaning copper,” Dimant says. “If it fits in the bin, it’s good enough.” The name of the game is simplicity, efficiency, and speed.
Dimant keeps things simple, even with equipment. “We used to have a small baler, but it was more of a waste of time,” he says. With limited space, he doesn’t rely on large machines like cranes or skid-steer loaders. “I’ve got two forklifts, and that’s it. I sell all my stuff locally — very locally.”
BREAKING NEW GROUND
While the Capital Salvage yard has been a staple in Vancouver since the 1950s, it wasn’t until 1992 that Dimant’s parents took over the business. Then, in 2002, life took an unexpected turn when Dimant’s father passed away, leaving him to take over.
“At 22, it was kind of cool to be the big boss,” Dimant admits. “It took some time to gain the respect of the industry, whether it was from people buying scrap or customers bringing it in.”
There’s plenty of scrap to go around. There’s a place in the industry chain for us where we can succeed and the big guys can succeed.
Dov Dimant Owner, Capital Salvage
Taking over a family business at such a young age wasn’t all smooth sailing. The land that housed the yard was rented, which meant they could be forced out at any moment.
“At the time, I was young, so it didn’t really mean much to me,” Dimant explains. “But to my parents, it was always in the back of their minds that we weren’t quite secure here.”
The challenges didn’t end there. “The City of Vancouver doesn’t transfer or give new scrap licenses out, so to keep our scrap metal license, we had to stay at this address. Even if I moved across the lane, I’d lose it.”
Eventually, that day arrived and the landowner listed the property for sale. At the time, Capital Salvage operated on just one lot, while the seller owned four — nearly half a block in total. With the seller unwilling to break up the lots, skyrocketing land costs, and Dimant’s finances stretched thin, he had no choice but to get creative.
“The catch is that three of the four lots are deemed contaminated because there’s been scrapyards here for so long. They used to drain oil, battery acid, and all that gross stuff right into the ground,” says Dimant. “That complicated finances, because since it’s contaminated land, the bank won’t get involved. We had to fund it privately, which was stressful at the time, but I pulled some strings and made it happen.”
To afford the entire four-lot package, Dimant had to sell the only clean lot. “That was the fourth lot,” he says, gesturing to a building still in the midst of construction. Not an easy decision, but a necessary one.
“To make a long story short, being able to buy the property was the biggest game changer because it’s now ours and we don’t have to worry about getting booted off. We can make necessary renovations and changes and it’s ours finally,” says Dimant. “That was a sense of relief in one area, and a little bit more stress, more payments in other areas, but it worked out.”
PUSHING FORWARD
As scrapyards grow scarce in the city, Capital Salvage remains a thriving holdout that values connection and creativity as much as the materials it processes. While the goal might be to reclaim metal, it’s clear that it’s about more than just recycling — the true value lies in the relationships he’s building, one piece of scrap at a time.
For Dimant, it’s not just a business; it’s a part of who he is. Despite the ups and downs, he’s all in, keeping the legacy of those before him alive while adding his own twist. And, just in case, the Captain Salvage costume is always on standby. RPN
Q & A
INDUSTRY COLLABORATION IS THE PATH TO IMPROVED AEROSOL RECYCLING
BY SLONE FOX, EDITOR
erosol recycling has long been a neglected aspect of waste management. Even when recycling does occur, most efforts focus solely on recovering the metal cans, leaving other components like propellant gases and residual hazardous liquids untouched. This partial approach fails to address the full environmental impact of aerosols and hinders the transition to a circular economy.
What’s the current state of the aerosol recycling industry?
Globally, the aerosol recycling industry is extremely under-equipped with virtually no practical programs in place to address the environmental challenges ahead. The ownership of responsibility for proper recycling is a big issue. Who is responsible for the end of life of these aerosols and how is it funded? That’s the main issue. The environmental responsibilities for these products basically end once they are shipped from the manufacturer’s back door.
The public pressure for climate change action has brought aerosol recycling to a new place. This year is the first time in my 26 years in aerosol recycling that I’ve seen the aerosol industry taking some responsibility for the end of life of aerosols. This new enthusiasm is welcome and way overdue. We’re certainly starting from behind the eight ball with less than 20 percent of aerosols being recycled, based on my observations. That number is even less if a
aging director of Despray Environmental, to discuss the current challenges in aerosol recycling, how industry collaboration can create a safer and more sustainable industry, and the recent establishment of the Global Aerosol Recycling Association (GARA). Read on to discover how the recycling industry is evolving to ensure that every part of an aerosol container can be safely and efficiently recovered.
full circular economy is the baseline. With the launch of GARA and the aerosol industry’s full support, I truly believe a major environmental impact can be accomplished. As the saying goes, “It’s never too late to start.” Unfortunately, in the case of aerosols and a circular economy, action is long, long overdue. In just the past year, a very open and positive change of attitude is happening.
What are some of the biggest issues in aerosol recycling today?
The single biggest obstacle to aerosol recycling is safety and applying the proper technology to mitigate accidents, fires, and explosions. MRFs, household hazardous waste (HHW) sites, cities, private vendors, and fillers do not want any part of the safety risks. Therefore, aerosols are unfortunately recycled at extremely low rates. To combat this, Despray has developed the world’s safest and most efficient aerosol recycling technology with over 27 safety features.
Slone Fox
Mike MacKay
them into the atmosphere. Although this is a counterintuitive solution, it’s a reality for recyclers. Despray’s gas-cleaning technology has received global patents that deem the propellants 100 percent clean. This allows for the propellants to be deemed “end of waste” and used fully for waste-to-energy applications. This technology is now ready for commercial use and it’s a game changer.
In some jurisdictions, aerosols are not recognized as an individual waste stream, and therefore recycling protocols and recycling programs are simply not in place for either the public, the industry, or the recyclers to follow. This must change. Improper collection and separation methods of these cans do not give an opportunity for the recyclers to process these aerosols, even if they are motivated to do so.
Another issue is financial allocation and responsibility. Money that is dedicated to aerosol recycling from EPR programs, stewardship programs, and deposit return schemes needs to be better directed to more effective aerosol programs that will reward potential recyclers by allowing them to profit from aerosol recycling. Aerosol recycling equipment is expensive due to extreme safety concerns, so this investment needs to be rewarded with a proper ROI for recycling programs to be interested.
planet, but they need direction to be able to participate. TikTok, YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram need to be utilized to engage with the average person.
In terms of material recovery, what specific advancements does Despray offer that can increase the yield of recyclable materials from aerosol containers?
Currently, Despray offers a 100 percent aerosol recycling solution. Other methods generally only target the metal can as a recyclable product. The propellant gases and the liquid hazardous waste are generally not targeted or recycled due to technology complexity and safety. Despray enables all three waste streams to be 100 percent recycled, not only efficiently, but safely. Despray also developed “end of waste” technology for the captured propellants. This allows for full use of the propellants as an alternative fuel.
Despray’s patented aerosol recycling technology enables recycling facilities to recover 100 percent of the liquid, gas, and metal contents.
In your opinion, what steps are needed to bring these innovations into mainstream use?
First and foremost, the problems of aerosol recycling globally need to be acknowledged by the industry. International data collection is crucial to creating multi-level recycling programs. From that data, programs can be rolled out that combine efforts between manufacturers and all other stakeholders throughout the value chain.
The complications of tackling this waste stream are many. Aerosols are not recognized as an actual waste stream, and therefore no standard guidelines are in place. Another barrier is attaching a recycling fee to these cans which reflects the high costs and complexities of properly recycling aerosols. To do things correctly costs money. If the recyclers can’t be compensated for recycling costs, then there is no motivation to process this waste stream. A financial bounty of some sort needs to apply to all aerosol cans. A public awareness and public education plan also needs to be put in place, and GARA plans on providing the training and necessary programs to initiate and roll out both industry and public aerosol recycling programs.
Looking ahead,
what
future innovations do you envision for the aerosol recycling process? Are there emerging technologies that you believe could complement
or
enhance your current solutions?
We have the technology to recycle aerosols with 100 percent efficiency, and future innovations in propellant gas purification are currently being explored. We are very close to making that a reality. Gas cleaning would allow the propellant gas to be recognized as “end of waste” which will allow it to be used fully for waste-to-energy solutions.
Advancements in environmentally friendly propellant types could also add to the viability of manufacturing an environmentally friendlier aerosol product. Proper sorting technology at sorting plants and waste facilities would also be a breakthrough for recognizing and separating aerosols from other non-aerosol cans. Proper sorting through trained robotic pickers or scannable identification tags on cans are also future technologies that require R&D. They would serve to track data and separate aerosols from all other types of cans. This way, they would be much easier to process as a separate waste stream. The problem now is that everything is mixed together which creates unsafe situations.
How do you see GARA influencing the establishment of global standards and best practices for aerosol recycling? What standards do you believe are crucial for effective recycling processes?
GARA will play a key role in the education and implementation of recycling programs. This is an overwhelming task that starts with data collection. The plan is to join the main forces of the aerosol industry to create programs that can be used as a resource to address the aerosol recycling issues globally.
Safety assessments, carbon credit calculations, and technical support will also be part of GARA’s vision. I believe that a singular program will not work for all parties, regions, or recyclers. GARA will create different recycling programs that will be rated bronze, silver, gold, and platinum. Each one of these programs will have its own methodologies, safety protocols, and environmental impact recognition.
The aerosol world is in great need of a single source of information, and GARA plans to be that source. With industry support, any entity can have access to necessary information that will at least start to address their aerosol recycling needs. RPN
One of the biggest obstacles to aerosol recycling is integrating the technology needed to mitigate accidents, fires, and explosions.
BALANCE SPEED, PRECISION & COMPLIANCE WITH HANDHELD ANALYZERS
ADVANCED TECHNOLOGIES HELP RECYCLERS MEET TRACEABILITY DEMANDS
WITH GREATER ACCURACY
Metal recycling facilities face increasing pressures to improve material sorting accuracy, enhance operational efficiency, and meet growing demands for traceability. The traditional reliance on manual sorting methods not only risks material loss but also increases labour strain and operational costs.
As the industry shifts toward transparency and quality assurance, innovative technologies like handheld analyzers are emerging as indispensable tools. These devices provide recycling facilities with the precision and flexibility needed to thrive in an evolving market.
ADDRESSING INDUSTRY CHALLENGES
Metal recycling facilities often face the challenge of sorting incoming materials that vary widely in composition and quality. Mixed scrap — from aluminum cans to high-grade alloys — arrives in bulk, often with inconsistent material types and contamination levels.
While manual sorting may seem cost-effective, it leads to material loss, inefficiencies, and higher labour costs. Workers tasked with identifying metals based solely on sight and experience struggle to keep up with the complexity of the material flow.
Compounding these challenges is the rising demand for traceability. Buyers now expect detailed reports on material composition and impurity levels rather than vague assurances of quality. Recycling facilities must adapt to these evolving expectations to remain competitive.
LIBS IN ACTION
In response to these challenges, many facilities are adopting advanced handheld technologies to deliver rapid readings of
metal composition without relying on X-rays. This makes it a viable option for locations with stringent X-ray regulations.
HW Green Company has significantly expanded its operations over the past three years, steadily enhancing its non-ferrous recycling capabilities. As part of this growth, the company recognized the need for greater precision in material grading — both on the retail side and for its industrial and utility customers.
Previously, HW Green relied on the SciAps X-550 analyzer for alloys, red metals, and aluminum grades. To further advance its capabilities, the company recently invested in the Z-70 LIBS analyzer to improve accuracy in aluminum grading.
HW Green also acquired the X-200 analyzer which is used on the buy side of transactions, while two units are dedicated to sorting materials for sale, ensuring precise grading and processing.
“The combination of the Z-70 and our new X-200 analyzer enables more precise identification of light elements such as aluminum, magnesium, and silicon, as well as alloys like the 6000 and 5000 series and other aluminum grades,” says Krista Ostuno, president of HW Green Company.
John Sartori, operations manager at HW Green, highlighted the operational advantages: “This technology allows us to grade and upgrade materials quickly and accurately, segregating alloys and enhancing our ability to sell directly to primary mills. Additionally, the Z-70’s non-X-ray technology eliminates the need for registration and exempts it from regulatory requirements.”
A SciAps Z-Series LIBS analyzer.
THE JOSEPH FREEDMAN COMPANY’S APPROACH
For facilities preferring XRF technology, The Joseph Freedman Company provides an example of how handheld analyzers improve operations. The company sources 80 percent of its recyclable materials from manufacturers in industries like aerospace and medical equipment, where accurate material identification is critical.
The company’s analyzers include five SciAps analyzers. The X-200 is primarily used to spot-check aerospace turnings, which account for about 90 percent of the material. The X-250 handles further segregation, while the X-550s are stationed in the aluminum sorting department.
At any given time, four analyzers are in use, with one kept as a backup. Occasionally, buyers also test materials on site, making the backup analyzer a valuable asset.
A CLEAR PATH FORWARD
Handheld analyzers are revolutionizing the metal recycling industry by addressing its most pressing challenges, from increasing sorting accuracy and improving material recovery to meeting traceability demands, these tools have become indispensable for modern facilities.
Whether using LIBS analyzers for contamination-heavy environments or XRF analyzers for versatile material identification, facilities like HW Green and The Joseph Freedman Company demonstrate their transformative power.
By integrating advanced handheld analyzers, recycling facilities can not only boost profitability but also empower employees, strengthen buyer relationships, and remain competitive in an ever-evolving industry. For those ready to embrace the future of recycling, technologies like handheld analyzers offer a clear path forward.
WHAT TO EXPECT FOR MEXICAN STEEL IN 2025
STEEL MILLS IN MEXICO PLAN FOR EXPANSION AMID ECONOMIC CHALLENGES
BY IVAN LECHUGA
Sthe macroeconomic environment will present headwinds for domestic steelmaking. Here’s a look at what’s in store for 2025.
Mexico’s geographical position has provided expansion opportunities, especially for domestic steelmaking. However, simultaneous challenges exist even though a slew of new steel manufacturing projects have brought about a nearshoring of investments.
In recent years, Mexico has become a preferred export destination for China. China is constantly looking at markets newer than the U.S. or the EU, which have stringent regulations due to the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM). U.S. President Donald Trump has also hinted at potential 25 percent tariffs on Mexican steel and other products.
In the meantime, Mexican steel producers are working toward strengthening domestic production capabilities. New projects have been planned for the next five years (and some have recently been commissioned), as nearshoring is still expected to affect the manufacturing sector positively.
ter subdued efforts to increase inventories in Q4 of 2024. These facilities tried to improve their financial performance during the last stretch of the year by increasing liquidity and paring down inventories, possibly leaving them with tight ferrous stocks headed into Q1 of 2025. A spur in U.S. domestic activity could have Mexico following suit to start the year.
Moreover, Mexican market participants have been bearish about recycled steel prices, a sentiment that continued throughout the end of 2024. Many point to international factors, such as weak demand in the EU for Turkish-finished steel and price reductions in Chinese and Russian billet, as fundamentals for a negative outlook in 2024 and for the U.S. exports market to continue softening.
Even with a generally cautious sentiment for Mexico’s domestic ferrous prices, the country is gearing up for better steel production volumes. Here are the significant projects anticipated to come online in the next few years.
(SBQ) plant in Mexico to better serve potential customers who are relocating their manufacturing from Asia to the U.S. market. The plant could begin production in 2025 and add 600,000 metric tons of annual steel production capacity to the three Gerdau plants in Mexico which already produce 1.5 million metric tons of steel.
Gustavo Werneck, Gerdau’s chief executive officer, said the plant was contingent on pending commercial studies to determine viability. The company’s North American steel production in Q1 of 2024 fell by 2.8 percent to 1.15 million metric tons from 1.18 million metric tons, although sequentially, it rose by 19.3 percent from 966,000 metric tons in Q4 of 2023.
DEACERO
Steelmaker DeAcero is investing approximately $1.3 billion in a mill in Coahuila in northern Mexico. The facility will add nearly 1.2 million metric tons of steel production capacity to
the company’s current 1.5 million metric tons. It is expected to be completed by February 2026.
The new electric arc furnace will consume more ferrous material and use renewable energy. The mill will have a lower carbon footprint than its other facility and serve potential manufacturing clients setting up operations in Mexico.
At the same time, DeAcero invested $6.3 million in a smaller facility in Ciudad Juárez, Mexico, in the country’s northern region. The site will be operated by its subsidiary Ingetek and could produce 4,000 metric tons of steel rods (rebar) and profiles annually. It will serve clients in the construction industry and export to the U.S.
In 2023, Raul Gutierrez, president of DeAcero, mentioned that renovation plans would also be done for company facilities in Saltillo in the state of Coahuila, and Celaya in the state of Guanajuato in the Bajío region.
FRISA
Northern steelmaker Frisa is expected to commission an SBQ plant in Monterrey by April 2025. In Q1, the company will be conducting tests at the site. Once online, the new mill will expand Frisa’s sales outreach in North America and will have an annual capacity of 400,000 metric tons. SBQ production from the site will mainly target the aerospace market in the U.S. and Canada.
Frisa has also invested $200 million in acquiring a new rolling mill from Italian steelmaking equipment manufacturer Danieli. The project will expand the site’s annual capacity by 71.4 percent to 600,000 metric tons, which is currently 350,000 metric tons. The project will be commissioned once the plant becomes operational in 2026.
ARCELORMITTAL
Vertically integrated steelmaker ArcelorMittal Mexico also plans to expand its facility in Lázaro Cárdenas, Michoacán. Its flat steel production is expected to grow by 32.5 percent to 5.3 million metric tons from a current 4 million metric tons. The $1 billion project included a new pickling line with a 750,000 metric tons annual capacity, commissioned in 2023.
TERNIUM
Latin American steelmaker Ternium is in phase three of an expansion protocol that started in 2010. This is the last phase, which is projected to end by 2026.
The company expected fewer shipments in Q4 of 2024 due to seasonal effects. Still, it has a positive outlook for the Mexican automotive and industrial sectors in 2025 as the new government, headed by President Claudia Sheinbaum, settles in. Additionally, the company expects the ramp-up of its new pickling line to reap the benefits of the potential increase in steel demand.
Ternium’s site in Pesqueria, Nuevo Leon, in northern Mexico, was commissioned in 2010. The current Phase 3 expansion plans include a new 550,000 metric ton hot rolling mill and five lines that will produce 600,000 metric tons annually of customizable steel.
For 2025, an additional cold rolling mill with an annual capacity of 1.6 million metric tons is expected, along with a 600,000-metric-ton mill that will produce galvanized steel. Ternium’s additional anticipated investment for the new approximately 2.6 million metric tons of production capabilities is about $4 billion.
Mexican recycled steel prices could improve with short-term developments and growing demand.
METALS
TYASA
In the eastern part of the country, Mexican steelmaker Talleres y Aceros (TYASA) broke ground on its SBQ mill in Orizaba, in Veracruz. The production facility, acquired from Danieli, will also add 350,000 to 400,000 metric tons of annual capacity to the site’s already established 1.2 million metric tons.
TYASA, along with other previously mentioned Mexican steelmakers, looks to serve the automotive, machinery, and construction sectors currently facing a shortage of high-quality materials. The SBQ mill is expected to become operational in Q3 of 2025.
SIMEC
Guadalajara-based steelmaker Simec has ongoing expansion plans for its Apizaco and San Luis Potosi sites. In December of 2023, the company ordered a new rebar rolling mill from the SMS group to provide an annual capacity of 500,000 metric tons.
An explosion at the Apizaco, Tlaxcala, site in late October of 2024 halted melting operations. Traders in the Central and Bajío regions noted that the company released significant volumes of recycled steel into the market, lowering prices.
A NEW BEGINNING
Mexico’s steel market guidance remains robust for 2025. President Claudia Sheinbaum’s administration has stated that the presidency’s economic program will focus on five key sectors to develop: semiconductors, electronics, medical devices, electric vehicles, and agroindustry.
them is the Interoceanic Corridor of the Isthmus of Tehuante pec (CIIT) railway corridor in the southern part of the country, meant to complement the Panama Canal. Developments to shore up logistics for the auto sector in the Bajío and Central regions and the auto parts manufacturing industry in the northern border region are also considered.
Mexican recycled steel prices could improve with short-term developments and growing demand. In the very short term, prices are expected to rise in January 2025, along with U.S. price expectations, as mills on both sides of the border aim to stock up after holding subdued inventories in Q4 of 2024.
IVAN LECHUGA is a ferrous market analyst with Davis Index, a market intelligence platform for ferrous, non-ferrous metals, and recovered paper. Ivan can be reached at ivan.lechuga@davisindex.com.
THE PARADOX OF PAPER RECYCLING
PAPER IS EASILY RECYCLED, YET IS STILL THE MOST PROMINENT RECYCLABLE MATERIAL IN MUNICIPAL WASTE STREAMS
BY CHRISTER HENRIKSSON
Paper is a perplexing commodity in the recycling market. On the one hand, it is the most easily recycled material, and on the other hand, it remains the most prominent recyclable material found in our municipal waste stream.
This is the paradox of paper.
Paper and corrugated cardboard are incredibly common and versatile materials. Hardly a day goes by without a human interacting with a paper product. Whether it’s reading a local newspaper, receiving a package, grabbing a morning cup from a favourite coffee shop, or picking up takeout for a family dinner, paper is everywhere. And despite the best efforts from every corner of the industry to keep paper out of garbage cans and landfills, it still ends up there.
Unlike some other consumer materials, paper is relatively easy for consumers to recycle, which can explain why paper boasts one of the highest recycling rates. So, the prevalence of paper and paper-based products in our landfills tells us that there are other barriers at play.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), paper and paperboard make up 23.1 percent of all generated municipal solid waste, but recycling rates vary dramatically based on how the paper is used by consumers.
For example, in 2018 — the last year data is available — newspapers had a recycling rate of 64.8 percent, while only 20.8 percent of paper containers and packaging were recycled. Meanwhile, an impressive 96.5 percent of corrugated
boxes were recycled. This data tells us that, despite consumers being willing and capable of recycling high volumes of paper, 17.2 million tons of paper and paperboard still found its way to landfills.
LIMITED INFRASTRUCTURE
Clearly, barriers still exist for collecting and recycling paper. Like other commodities, contamination and technology limitations are major challenges that limit paper’s recyclability.
Municipalities and solid waste programs, as well as paper producers around the world, have tried different approaches to enhance paper recycling rates. Cities like Seattle and San Francisco mandate the use of recyclable or compostable single-use food service packaging. Major food and beverage brands are also working to reduce plastic packaging and replace it with compostable materials.
Increasing the use of compostable materials could be helpful to reduce the use of some material types, like plastic. However, the infrastructure to handle post-consumer compostables is very much in its infancy. To date, only 143 composting facilities in the U.S. (about 16 percent) accept packaging in addition to food waste. Meanwhile, only 27 percent of the U.S. population has access to a curbside or drop-off composting program. While composting can be part of the solution, especially for hard-to-recycle materials, access remains a significant barrier for most consumers.
Until recently, the landfill was the only destination for pizza boxes and paper cups.
CLEANING FOOD-SOILED FIBRES
Luckily, waste diversion technology has advanced and is proven to greatly reduce the barriers to recycling and reusing paper. One of the most prominent sources of contamination originates from paper used in food and beverage containers.
Pizza boxes are contaminated with grease. Paper cups have plastic films that prevent the liquid from seeping through. While recycling these products has historically been challenging, the paper fibres remain recyclable.
Until recently, landfills were the only destination for these products. The recycling system did not have an efficient means of cleaning and separating contaminants from the paper fibre. That all changed with the development of advanced waste diversion technology.
Advanced waste diversion technology — like Juno Technology, a patented autoclave process — uses heat, pressure, and steam to clean, decontaminate, and separate paper fibres from other materials in the solid waste stream. Clean paper fibres are then available to be used in recycled paper products. However, recovering paper fibre from the waste stream is just the first hurdle to clear. The second is ensuring that the
fibres recovered from municipal solid waste (MSW) can be effectively reused in recycled paper products and ultimately used in products that meet Food and Drug Administration (FDA) standards for food safety.
The fibre collected is used to make paper at Georgia-Pacific’s nearby containerboard mill and has been deemed safe for food contact in the U.S. This is a game changer for consumers because paper-based food packaging can now be recycled just like a newspaper or junk mail with very little education or shift in behaviour.
SUSTAINABLE PACKAGING FOR EVERYONE
Today, many consumers can purchase items with compostable packaging. But, if you are one of the 85 percent of Americans without access to curbside or drop-off composting, it’s likely that your compostable packaging will end up in a landfill. That’s because compostable packaging doesn’t break down in a typical backyard compost bin. Most compostable materials, especially those labelled “commercial compostable only,” need a higher level of industrial processing to break down.
Juno’s autoclave process uses heat, pressure, and steam to clean, decontaminate, and separate paper fibres from other materials.
For a quarter of consumers, mostly in dense urban areas, this isn’t necessarily a problem because they have access to commercial composting programs. But a vast majority of consumers still want sustainable packaging and need an alternative to commercially compostable packaging.
Clean recyclables are still recycled. Yard and food waste are still separated for composting, where it’s available. Most importantly, wet or dirty paper and cardboard, like the greasy pizza box or used to-go coffee cup, are still disposed of in the curbside garbage. The difference is that advanced waste diversion technology can process the solid waste stream to clean, sanitize, and recover high-value materials and paper fibres before they end up in landfills and is designed to integrate seamlessly into curbside solid waste processes.
BREWING INNOVATION
Waste diversion technologies are evolving. The solid waste and recycling industry is continually searching for more efficient and effective methods to collect valuable materials. Technology like optical sorting, electromechanical sorting, and anaerobic digestion have made resource recovery more approachable for the solid waste and recovery industry.
Juno’s parent company, Georgia-Pacific, has a long history of using recycled fibres to make paper-based products and leans on its more than 50 years of experience in recycling as one of the largest traders of recyclable commodities. As a papermaker, Georgia-Pacific recognized that paper fibres and other materials being sent to landfills still held value, but the necessary technology to clean and sanitize them did not yet exist.
In 2010, research started to develop a technology that could recover paper fibres. After over a decade of research, the autoclave-centred technology was born and ready for testing. While proving the capability to process municipal solid waste was always the end objective, the initial goal of the project was to first test the technology on commercial waste from office parks, food courts, and quick-serve restaurants — particularly focused on disposable, single-use coffee cups. These waste streams would be naturally high in paper fibre products and would provide a perfect opportunity to test the autoclave on fibre-rich waste and evaluate its recyclability.
In 2021, the COVID-19 pandemic was raging and people worked from home as office buildings sat empty. This meant that the commercial waste stream shifted over into the residential waste stream. Because research is rarely linear, the project pivoted, and the residential portion of municipal solid waste became the primary feedstock at the outset.
After initial testing, operations were scaled to demonstrate viability on a commercial level. The modular 70,000-ton-per-year unit ran on a 24/7 work schedule for almost two years and nearly tripled the community’s local diversion rate.
The plant processed MSW while diverting fibre, food, and metals away from landfills. Future installations will leverage optical sorters to recover plastics in addition to anaerobic digestion to turn food into renewable biogas on-site to divert up to 90 percent of the municipal waste it processes away from landfills and incinerators.
FUTURE-FOCUSED SOLUTIONS
On the one hand, [paper] is the most easily recycled material, and on the other hand, it remains the most prominent recyclable material found in our municipal waste stream.
generation. One study published by the National Institutes of Health found in a survey of 23 countries that food waste increased 43 percent. Meanwhile, in Ontario residential garbage increased 15 percent.
While it is widely accepted that waste generation was expected to increase temporarily, the pandemic will likely have a lasting impact on where and how that waste is disposed of. As more employees continue to work from home, or in hybrid work arrangements, residential recycling programs will likely continue to see higher waste generation rates.
The recycling industry will likely feel these shifts for years to come. The one clear thing is the need to create a more flexible solid waste management system capable of recovering and diverting high-value materials directly from both commercial and residential MSW.
Now is a critical moment in time when the demand for more effective waste diversion strategies aligns with consumer demand for it and generates new sources of recyclable content for paper-based packaging. Additionally, advanced waste diversion expands access to paper fibres once thought to be unrecyclable, and technological progress now allows food-safe paper-based packaging to be made from multiple sources of recycled fibre.
Material users, manufacturers, and consumers should keep researching, innovating, and implementing new advanced diversion technologies. By expanding recovery capabilities within the curbside waste system, access to material recovery can be expanded without forcing significant system changes or intensive alterations to consumer behaviour.
The COVID-19 pandemic did much more than alter waste diversion research — it fundamentally shifted consumer waste
CHRISTER HENRIKSSON is president of Juno, a Georgia-Pacific-owned company. Prior to leading the Juno team, he spent 12 years modernizing Georgia-Pacific’s recycling operations and leading the development of innovative recycling technologies. Before joining Georgia-Pacific, Christer served as SVP and COO of American Fiber Resources International, a multi-recycled-pulp mill entity. Christer can be reached at chenriks@gapac.com or on LinkedIn @ChristerHenriksson.
NEW STADLER FACILITY SUPPORTS NORTH AMERICA’S SHIFT TOWARD
AUTOMATED RECYCLING
THE EUROPEAN COMPANY IS BRINGING DECADES OF RECYCLING INSIGHT TO THE U.S. MARKET
BY MEGHAN BARTON, SENIOR WRITER
What happens when a European recycling pioneer sets its sights on North America? STADLER, recognized globally for its advanced recycling technology and waste management systems, is bringing German precision to the southern U.S.
After centuries of evolving operations, this company is breaking ground on a new operations complex in North Carolina. This strategic foray into a rapidly growing market highlights STADLER’s dedication to revolutionizing recycling on a global scale.
THE EVOLUTION OF STADLER
The first iteration of STADLER was in 1791 as a blacksmith shop in Germany. Over centuries, the company has maintained its status as a family-owned and operated business, now under the leadership of its seventh generation, with the eighth generation poised to continue involvement. This legacy positions STADLER as one of Germany’s 50 oldest continuously operating companies.
The company’s venture into recycling began in the 1970s, driven by an opportunity to design specialized waste collection containers for the 1972 Munich Olympics. The leadership at STADLER identified recycling as a niche industry with immense potential. By the late 1980s, the company had developed its first full recycling facility, and, in 1991, introduced the
Throughout the 1990s, STADLER expanded its capabilities, including steelwork manufacturing and turnkey installation services. By 2014, growing global demand for its recycling solutions led to the establishment of a modern manufacturing headquarters in Altshausen, Germany, which has since undergone four expansions to accommodate continued growth.
STRATEGIC EXPANSION: WHY NORTH AMERICA AND WHY NOW?
In 2016, STADLER identified North America as a market ready for advanced automation in recycling. Recycling systems in the U.S. still relied heavily on manual processes, unlike Europe, where automation had already become the norm due to the high cost of labour.
STADLER’s leadership recognized this moment as an opportunity to introduce its highly automated recycling solutions, honed through decades of innovation in Europe. By aligning their expertise with this growing demand for efficiency, STADLER was poised to fill a critical gap in the market.
The decision to establish an operations complex in North Carolina was both strategic and practical. The location, specifically the Winston-Salem, Colfax, and Greensboro area, is located near three major ports. It sits at the intersection of two
The STADLER U.S. groundbreaking with M. Everhart, J. Berger, J. Stadler, and W. Stadler in front of the new office visualization.
goals and economic practicality.
bility is a significant advantage for importing goods from Eu rope, sourcing stock parts, and distributing products efficiently to customers across North America.
Beyond logistics, the region boasts a highly skilled labour pool rooted in a legacy of craftsmanship. Historically home to the textile and furniture industries, the area has a workforce rich in second- and third-generation skilled labourers. By situating its hub in North Carolina, STADLER has created a strategic radius for efficient operations, primarily focused on the East Coast and stretching into the Midwest and other regions. This approach ensures that the company can deploy both human and capital assets effectively within these areas, maintaining a high standard of customer support.
TACKLING NORTH AMERICA’S UNIQUE CHALLENGES
The size and diversity of the North American market present unique challenges for STADLER as it expands. In Europe, markets are denser and more uniform, but the geography of the U.S. and Canada creates logistical hurdles. With population centres spread across vast distances, the transportation of recycled materials can often negate the environmental benefits of recycling, creating an inherent tension between environmental
Adding to this complexity is the diversity of regulatory environments across states and municipalities. The United States alone operates under a patchwork of local, state, and federal rules, making it more than just one market. This lack of standardization requires tailored solutions that can adapt to the specific needs of each region while maintaining overall efficiency.
STADLER’S ADAPTIVE GROWTH STRATEGY
STADLER addresses these challenges with a multi-faceted approach that combines technological innovation, collaboration, and customer empowerment. Recognizing that no single company can excel at everything, the company focuses on its core strengths — technologies like its drum screens and ballistic separators — while partnering with other providers to integrate a wide range of solutions into its systems.
STADLER also extends its involvement further into the recycling cycle. Beyond capturing and processing materials, the company now collaborates with secondary processors to improve the quality of recycled outputs. Innovations like refining wash and extrusion lines help produce materials that meet higher standards for reuse, enabling the creation of new products such as thermoforms for bottles.
A rendering of the U.S. STADLER headquarters.
knowledge and excitement for the field, STADLER is investing in the long-term growth of the sector.
But at the foundation of these strategies is STADLER’s commitment to hearing the concerns and needs of its customer base. STADLER prides itself on being a partner to the industry, fostering open communication with customers to understand their pain points and emerging challenges. By staying connected to industry-specific media and maintaining regular dialogues with stakeholders, STADLER identifies opportunities and uncovers problems that need innovative solutions.
This customer-centric approach has informed STADLER’s growth strategy in North America. Here, the focus has been on building trust and relationships, leveraging feedback from customers to design solutions tailored to the region’s specific needs.
“It all starts with listening,” says Mat Everhart, CEO of STADLER America. “We ask a lot of questions and take the time to listen to our customers. This approach helps us better understand their needs and deliver solutions that make a real difference. And honestly, as simple as that sounds, I think it’s the best thing we can possibly be doing.”
CONNECTING WITH STADLER
A cornerstone of STADLER’s 21st century strategy is its emphasis on data-driven solutions. While its mechanical systems remain foundational, STADLER’s latest focus is on digital innovation.
Central to this effort is STADLERconnect, a cutting-edge digital platform designed to provide customers with actionable data to optimize their facilities. Traditional recycling plants may struggle with inefficiencies due to a lack of visibility into real-time operations. STADLERconnect addresses this gap by integrating materials analysis, predictive maintenance, and process automation into a single, user-friendly interface. Customers can monitor their plant’s performance, detect potential blockages before they cause downtime, and even adjust convey-
provides operators with a clearer picture of what is coming in and out of their facility, enabling them to make informed decisions that maximize throughput and improve the purity of recovered materials.
“These are things nobody else is doing, and so far, with our customers, it’s just been sort of an ‘aha moment,’” says Everhart. “The plants that they thought couldn’t possibly do any more are doing 10 to 15 percent more at a better purity and a better uptime level. And for plants that are struggling to find ways to get all the tons through the door and still meet quality, that can be a game changer.”
The smart technologies implemented by STADLER are designed to improve efficiency and future-proof facilities against evolving waste streams and market demands.
PLANNED EXPANSION ACROSS NORTH AMERICA
STADLER’s North Carolina facility is designed with future growth in mind, built to accommodate market demands over the next 15 years. The facility provides the space and infrastructure necessary to support a growing customer base and enable STADLER to expand its human capital and technical capabilities. This forward-thinking approach allows the company to respond to the needs of a dynamic market while ensuring that it can meet the increasing demand for parts, services, and expertise.
As the North American market continues to evolve, STADLER sees potential for further expansion, including additional facilities across the continent. These expansions will be strategically located to enhance service delivery and decrease response times, particularly in areas where market demand justifies additional investment. By maintaining flexibility in its plans, STADLER can adapt to changes in market conditions and customer needs, ensuring that its growth aligns with the broader goals of the recycling industry. RPN
STADLER has teamed up with major players such as Republic Services to deliver recycling solutions.
WHAT’S NEW IN CONSTRUCTION & DEMOLITION RECYCLING?
LATEST EQUIPMENT INTRODUCTIONS ADDRESS INDUSTRY PAIN POINTS
BY MEGHAN BARTON, SENIOR WRITER
The construction and demolition (C&D) recycling sector continues to evolve, driven by advancements in equipment and technology that address critical industry obstacles. The latest innovations focus on key priorities like improved mobility for complex job environments, exceptional safety protocols, simplified maintenance, easier operation, and increased equipment durability. OEMs are striving to equip the industry to adapt to the need for more streamlined workflows, greater efficiency, and sustainability by expanding product offerings, elevating features and functionality, and integrating smarter technologies into demolition machines and processing equipment.
NEW PROCESSING EQUIPMENT BREAKS GROUND
The shift toward smarter, more efficient processing equipment is crucial
for the C&D recycling sector. Operations are grappling with a range of challenges, including the need for greater mobility on confined job sites and the demand for compact machinery that can still deliver powerful performance. The increasing reliance on technology to optimize workflows, reduce downtime, and enhance safety is essential for managing rising material volumes, meeting strict environmental standards, and addressing the challenges posed by a lack of skilled labour.
RUBBLE MASTER has entered the mobile jaw crusher market with the RM J110X. Boasting a deep jaw with a 44- by 28-inch inlet opening (1,100 by 700 millimetres) this heavy-duty primary crusher is designed for hard natural rock and C&D recycling applications.
According to RUBBLE MASTER, new and experienced operators will find machine settings and maintenance tasks easy to navigate. Leveraging the latest hydraulic technologies, the RM
J110X consumes less hydraulic fluid and requires fewer change intervals, saving time and money.
Kleemann has combined compact dimensions, low transport weight, and enhanced flexibility to make the new MOBIREX MR 100(i) NEO/NEOe impact crusher ideal for tight spaces and diverse applications. This compact mobile impact crusher processes materials ranging from concrete and asphalt to natural stone with high precision. It is available in diesel-direct (NEO) or all-electric (NEOe) versions; the NEOe variant offers emission-free operation.
The crusher ensures high product quality through its powerful 4-ledged rotor, which delivers a large impact range and adaptable rotor ledge options. An optional 4-metre-squared single-deck secondary screening unit enables classified final grain sizes, while an optional wind sifter further enhances product quality.
Also of note, Kleemann SPECTIVE CONNECT system now includes a stock-
Kleemann’s SPECTIVE CONNECT.
pile monitoring feature designed to improve efficiency on complex worksites. This increased capacity tracks material discharge and monitors associated stockpiles, providing real-time updates on their status. Users can set customizable thresholds to receive push notifications when action is required, ensuring timely interventions.
The stockpile monitoring system addresses a common visibility challenge for excavator and wheel loader operators. By notifying operators precisely when a stockpile needs clearing, the system eliminates unnecessary trips, prevents workflow interruptions caused by overfilled stockpiles, and increases overall productivity. The system also collects data to build algorithms that predict when stockpiles will reach capacity, further streamlining operations.
OEMs are advancing the demolition sector by engineering equipment that directly addresses the complexities inherent to the industry. Space constraints
on urban job sites demand machinery that balances compact dimensions with the power and precision. Transportation logistics further complicate operations, requiring equipment that is easily mobilized between projects.
Durability remains non-negotiable, as machinery must withstand harsh environments and high-intensity use, and versatility is increasingly vital to managing diverse tasks with fewer resources.
Efficiency and speed are critical for maximizing output and minimizing project timelines, while downtime for maintenance disrupts productivity, highlighting the importance of streamlined designs and extended service intervals.
As always, safety is a fundamental priority, and OEMs are delivering purpose-built machines that redefine performance and reliability for demolition.
Komatsu has significantly expanded its presence in the North American demolition market with a new line of demolition excavators. These machines, proven in Europe for over two decades, are available to North American contractors for the first time.
The PC490HRD-11 high-reach demolition excavator’s K100 boom change system allows operators to quickly adapt
to changing job site conditions, minimizing downtime. The boom change system includes oversized quick couplers on the hydraulic lines which minimize back pressure and oil heating without restricting oil flow. Hydraulically powered pins mounted inside the main boom structure reduce the risk of damage to equipment during reconfiguration.
Additional models in Komatsu’s lineup — the straight-boom PC290LC-11, PC360LC-11, and PC490LC-11 — provide increased reach (22 to 26 percent) over their standard counterparts and have robust guarding systems.
Volvo Construction Equipment’s updated line of demolition excavators includes straight boom and high-reach models.
The 30-ton EC300 Straight Boom and the 40-ton EC400 Straight Boom replace their previous generation counterparts (EC300E Straight Boom and the EC380E Straight Boom). Both models increase reach over standard digging models by approximately 30 percent and have a detachable counterweight. They also deliver a 10 percent increase in engine power and a 14 percent improvement in fuel efficiency compared to their predecessors.
Komatsu’s new demolition excavator lineup.
RUBBLE MASTER’s RM J110X mobile jaw crusher.
Safety and operator comfort are prioritized with the robust Falling Objects Guard, roll-over protection, and single-piece 12-millimetre impact-resistant glass. Improved visibility, an electric joystick, and ergonomic controls enable precision operation while reducing fatigue.
The new 50-ton EC500 Straight Boom, tailored for large-scale demolition, features a 25.5-foot boom with a 30 percent increase in pin height over standard models. Its heavier counterweight (6,610 pounds) ensures stability for heavy-duty tasks, while advanced features like a case drain line improve hydraulic efficiency. Volvo has extended hydraulic filter change intervals to 1,000 hours, and enhanced safety features include rollover protection, single-piece impact-resistant glass, and an optional remote control.
For specialized high-reach demolition, the EC400 High Reach and EC500 High Reach models replace the EC380EHR and EC480EHR. These machines feature hydraulic systems that are optimized with larger X1 return lines and dedicated drain lines, ensuring efficient operation and reduced back pressure for rotating motors. Modular boom configurations allow operators to switch to standard
digging tasks when necessary.
This new generation of Volvo highreach excavators delivers a 15 percent improvement in fuel efficiency through engine pump optimization.
Demolition Assist gives the operator real-time visual and audible stability alerts. Situational awareness is also improved through the integrated Smart View system with optional Obstacle Detection. Advanced controls, including Comfort Drive Control and smart switches, make handling these excavators intuitive and efficient.
Engineered for urban demolition projects, SENNEBOGEN’s 830 R-HDD long-front demolition machine has a compact design and telescopic undercarriage making it well-suited for navigating tight spaces. The transport weight can be reduced by 20,000 pounds (9,050
and advanced hydraulics for precise, energy-efficient operations. SENNEBOGEN’s fully hydraulic quick-coupler system allows for rapid attachment changes, minimizing delays on site and increasing versatility.
Safety has been prioritized throughout the design, and bulletproof windshields, skylights, and camera systems give operators visibility and protection. The hydraulically elevating Maxcab, which tilts up to 30 degrees, offers a comfortable and safe operating position. Stability is bolstered by a wide working stance, enabling vibration-free operation even at maximum height.
C&D IS EVOLVING
As the industry evolves, equipment innovations play an increasingly pivotal role in meeting the needs of the C&D
Volvo CE’s EC500 High Reach demolition excavator.
SENNEBOGEN’s 830 R-HDD demolition excavator.
PREPARING FOR THE EV BATTERY BOOM
CIRBA SOLUTIONS TO INVEST OVER $2 BILLION TO PREPARE FOR THE SURGE OF EOL BATTERIES
BY SLONE FOX, EDITOR
With lithium-ion batteries powering everything from consumer electronics to electric cars, the recycling industry is grappling with ever-increasing volumes of batteries that need to be processed. As the first generation of electric vehicle batteries approaches the end of its life cycle, significant investments in infrastructure, technology, and regulatory support are needed.
“One of the biggest challenges in North America is the increasing volume of batteries requiring recycling,” says Danielle Spalding, vice president of communications and public affairs at Cirba Solutions. “The capacity at which we can recycle and process batteries needs to grow significantly to meet the predicted demand.”
ADDRESSING MISCONCEPTIONS
Despite technological advancements, misconceptions about battery recycling persist. A common belief is that lithium-ion batteries cannot be recycled — a misunderstanding that often leads to people throwing batteries into their trash bins, which poses a threat to both waste collectors and the environment.
“Another misconception is that battery materials can only be used once, yet materials like lithium, cobalt, and nickel can be recycled and reused multiple times. Other materials like zinc and manganese found in alkaline batteries can be repurposed for new applications, such as being used as micronutrients in fertilizers,” says Spalding.
The battery recycling industry must be prepared to handle this influx safely and efficiently, ensuring that batteries are recycled and reintegrated into the domestic supply chain.
Danielle Spalding VP of Communications and Public Affairs, Cirba Solutions
ESTABLISHING A NETWORK
Scaling battery recycling in North America faces challenges not only due to increasing volumes of end-of-life batteries but also logistical hurdles and the need for specialized infrastructure.
“Establishing a robust network of battery recycling facilities is a top priority,” says Spalding. “Consumer batteries must be collected, packaged, and transported in compliance with specific safety standards, which can present a logistical challenge.”
EV batteries, due to their size and weight, require even more specialized treatment. To remedy this, Cirba Solutions partners with retailers like Batteries Plus to make battery recycling more accessible, an essential step in scaling efforts.
TACKLING INDUSTRY CHALLENGES THROUGH EXPANSION
Expanding domestic recycling capacity is crucial to meeting the demands of the growing EV market, and new lithium-ion processing facilities will increase the supply of materials needed for new battery manufacturing.
Cirba Solutions’ Lancaster, Ohio, facility recently underwent a significant expansion, supported by $82 million in funding under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL). Cirba Solutions plans to invest more than $2 billion into the battery recycling sector over the coming years to prepare for the impending surge of end-of-life EV batteries.
In 2024, the Lancaster facility hit a major milestone, increasing production capacity by over 300 percent and workforce size by 25 percent. Once fully operational, it will supply enough battery-grade metal salts to support over 250,000 EV batteries annually. The company is also developing a lithium-ion processing facility in Columbia, South Carolina, that will process more than 60,000 tons of batteries annually, producing materials for approximately 500,000 EV batteries each year.
Government policies like the BIL and Inflation Reduction Act
play a crucial role in these efforts by prioritizing a domestic supply of critical minerals and prompting the development of recycling infrastructure. “By incentivizing domestically sourced materials, these laws reinforce the battery recycling industry as a critical pathway to minimize the need for virgin materials and reduce the reliance on foreign sources,” says Spalding.
A SUSTAINABLE PATH FORWARD
With substantial investments being made to expand recycling networks and processing facilities, the industry is positioning itself to meet this challenge head-on. By embracing new technologies, addressing misconceptions, and working closely with regulators, the battery recycling sector is making significant strides toward creating a sustainable, circular economy that will support the future of electric vehicles.
“The battery recycling industry must be prepared to handle this influx safely and efficiently, ensuring that batteries are recycled and reintegrated into the domestic supply chain. The industry is currently working to close the gap in meeting this demand, all while creating a closed-loop supply chain and circular economy,” says Spalding. RPN
Recycling infrastructure must grow significantly to meet the predicted demand.
The rise of electric vehicles marks a shift from basic alkaline batteries to advanced energy storage solutions.
WASTE CONNECTIONS RAMPS UP FIRE PREVENTION IN NEW MRF
THE HIGHLY AUTOMATED SINGLE-STREAM FACILITY REPLACES A SYSTEM THAT SUFFERED A TOTAL LOSS
Once smoke is detected in a MRF, it takes no more than two minutes and 40 seconds for the fire to become uncontrollable. When designing its newest plant, a highly automated single-stream facility in Plainfield, Illinois, Waste Connections prioritized safety. The new Plainfield MRF sits on the site of its predecessor, a system that suffered a total equipment and building loss after a fire in 2021.
In addition to the extensive array of fire prevention strategies, the Waste Connections team put a lot of consideration into the equipment and building design to increase safety for their workers.
Jerry Evans, maintenance manager, described the plant’s three major operating areas — the tipping floor, the processing area, and the bale storage and warehouse — as segregated and walled off to prevent fires in one area from spreading to another.
“Waste Connections has flipped the thinking that people should protect the machines,” he says. “They’ve designed this system so the machines protect the people.”
SAFETY AT THE FOREFRONT
To eliminate the pre-sort station, Waste Connections installed a Günther SPLITTER screen to remove glass and other smaller items. The team also chose Pellenc optical sorters specifically for their platform design, which takes into account the safety of those performing maintenance functions on them. Quality control on the fibre and container lines is fully automated by Van Dyk optical sorters, and the MRF has been able to run up to 37 tph with only four manual sorters.
Waste Connections continues to explore emerging fire prevention technologies that they can add to their future MRF builds. “Fire safety is a continually working project,” says David Kawa, district manager for Groot Industries which operates the MRF. “We will never stop looking for the next best thing.”
Waste Connections’ local team worked with their design and construction contractors to build extra measures into the new MRF for fire safety and prevention. Kawa says the difference in
the fire safety measures of the new facility compared to the old one are like night and day.
FIVE LEVELS OF FIRE PREVENTION
A traditional recycling facility may have an overhead sprinkler system and local fire extinguishers in case of a fire, but with high ceilings in many recycling facilities, fires can smolder in the equipment, creating flames that aren’t high enough to trip the ceiling sensors but can be devastating none the less. Even when sprinklers do go off, given that window of two minutes and 40 seconds, it may already be too late to save the system from major equipment damage.
The design for the Plainfield MRF needed to incorporate fire detection at lower heights, closer to the source, to be truly effective at preventing fire damage. The new MRF in Plainfield operates with five levels of fire safety and prevention, more than any other MRF in North America.
Levels one and two are the traditional combination of local fire extinguisher tanks and an overhead sprinkler system. Level three is Fire Rover units which monitor every area of the plant. The Fire Rovers employ an AI system to detect smoke and an infrared system to detect high levels of heat. Level four consists of compressed air foam units housed in all material bunkers,
where fires often begin. These foam units can be deployed at the first sign of a fire, spraying foam to suppress smoke and flames before they become uncontrollable. Level five is an on-site, high-capacity water tank storing over 245,000 gallons of water. Connected to this tank are 1.5-inch high-temperature rated, fire department grade hoses running throughout the rails of the plant and on the second-floor mezzanine, poised to fight incipient fires.
MONEY WELL SPENT
Tim Horkay, director of recycling operations at Waste Connections, says the cost of the fire prevention systems was a sizeable investment — over 5 percent of the total project cost. It was more than what would traditionally be allocated for fire prevention, but has already proven to be money well spent, as the MRF has successfully fought one potentially devastating fire since start-up.
When flames fully engulfed both paper bunkers, on-site employees were able to spot the fire and deploy the in-bunker compressed foam units in a timely manner. The fire was extinguished before the fire department arrived and, as confirmed by Kawa, resulted in no damage to surrounding belts and controls.
When monitoring the system operations for potential incidents, Kawa says all hands are on deck. Floor operators and su-
Waste Connections has flipped the thinking that people should protect the machines. They’ve designed this system so the machines protect the people.
Jerry Evans Maintenance Manager, Groot
pervisors roam the floor with tablets, a system he calls “mobile controllability.”
Among other capabilities, the tablets can be used to control the flow of material. In the event of a fire, they can quickly halt material or send it in the opposite direction to isolate the fire and properly target it with the fire prevention machinery. “The tablets help us stay dialed in, have eyes on the problem, and be able to control things in the moment,” says Kawa.
The system’s sorting equipment was supplied by Van Dyk Recycling Solutions.
EVENTS CALENDAR
CONNECT WITH THE INDUSTRY
PLASTICS RECYCLING CONFERENCE
NATIONAL HARBOR, MD | MARCH 24–25
The Association of Plastics Recyclers’ Plastics Recycling Conference brings together over 2,800 leaders, including plastic processors, recycled resin buyers and sellers, and other key stakeholders. The event features a dynamic trade show hall with over 250 exhibitors, including processors, compounders, and equipment vendors, creating an engaging environment for networking and collaboration. plasticsrecycling.com
OARA CONVENTION & TRADE SHOW
NIAGARA FALLS, ON | MARCH 27–29
The Ontario Auto Recyclers Association hosts Canada’s largest auto recycling convention and trade show. This 65+ booth event features keynote presentations, industry panels, roundtables, networking, and fundraisers. In 2025, the event will also include facility tours at two of Ontario’s best auto recyclers. oara.com/events
BAUMA 2025 MUNICH, GERMANY | APRIL 7–13
bauma is a meeting point for the global construction machinery, building material, and mining industries. The key players, innovations, target groups, and trends all come together in one place. The 34th edition will discuss topics such as the digital construction site, alternative drives, and tomorrow’s construction methods. bauma.de/en/trade-fair
2025
DIEGO, CA | MAY 12–15
NV | MAY 5–8
Conference: May 5-8, 2025
Expo Hall: May 6-8, 2025
Las Vegas Convention Center, Las Vegas, NV
Get ready to connect, innovate, and lead the future of waste management at WasteExpo 2025! The largest, most immersive event for the solid waste, recycling, and organics industry. Each year, we bring together thousands of professionals, groundbreaking technologies, and transformative solutions—all under one roof in Las Vegas.
SHOW FEATURES
EXPO HALL
Connect with 550+ exhibitors ready to help you find the perfect products and solutions for your business. From carts, balers, and containers to recycling equipment, truck bodies, and waste-to-energy services—WasteExpo showcases it all. Streamline your search and make the most of your time with industry-leading innovations, all under one roof.
CONFERENCE PROGRAM
WasteExpo’s conference program is the ultimate professional development event of the year. Gain the knowledge, skills, and innovative solutions you need to stay ahead in the waste and recycling industry. Sharpen your expertise, learn best practices, and discover actionable waste solutions—all while connecting with industry leaders. Join us in Las Vegas and see why over 75% of attendees rate our conference program as a must-attend experience!
SPECIAL EVENTS
Join over 14,000 participants from 100+ countries and make lasting industry connections at WasteExpo’s special events. With 15+ networking opportunities, you’ll engage with experts, innovators, and thought leaders from around the globe. From meaningful conversations to exciting activities, there’s something for everyone—no matter your interests or badge type.
SIGNIFICANT TRANSACTION
GFL to sell environmental services business valued at $8 billion
RECYCLED AGGREGATES
•
• Learn Best Practices and Techniques
• Improve your Jobsite and Business March 25-27, 2025 | St. Louis, MO
Accent Wire Tie
BKT Tires Canada
Construction & Demolition Recycling Association (CDRA)
Fagus – GreCon US
Harris Inc.
Herbold USA
Industrial Netting
Machinex Industries Inc.
McLanahan Corporation
OVB Holdings LLC
ReMA 2025
AC H IE V IN G RESU LTS
19 optical sorters performing 35 sorting tasks
AI deployed in optical sorters performing 12 sorting tasks that conventional sorters can not perform
