Increase the Value of Post-Industrial Plastic Scrap by Reducing Contaminants

Increase the Value of Post-Industrial Plastic Scrap by Reducing Contaminants

Plastic waste continues to rise, and the U.S. remains a leading generator of plastic materials. 

In response, policymakers at both state and federal levels are increasing efforts to reduce plastic pollution through regulatory measures and incentives. Several states have implemented single-use plastic bans, with more following suit.

With evolving regulations and the growing emphasis on a circular economy, businesses are exploring ways to enhance the value of their plastic scrap while maintaining compliance and operational efficiency.

Clean post-industrial plastic scrap holds more value than dirty, contaminated waste materials. 

Contaminant-free plastic waste reflects a commitment to environmental responsibility while maximizing the material’s worth in the marketplace. Investing in clean recycling practices will continue to grow as a strategic business practice, and Quincy Recycle helps our customers lead by example.

Common Plastic Contaminants in Industrial Recycling

Plastic contaminants disrupt the recycling process and lower the value of materials. By being proactive during waste management, manufacturing plants, distribution centers, and other industrial settings increase potential revenue streams with clean, recyclable materials.

We commonly see the following plastic contaminants:

  • Food or Organic Materials
  • Product Residues
  • Mixed Plastic Polymers
  • Labels and Adhesives
  • Mixed Metal, Paper, or other Materials
  • Chemical Contaminants
  • Dirt and Debris

If your plastic has some of the above contaminants, call us at 800.311.6097 to see how we can help!

Why Selling Clean Recycled Plastic Matters for Your Business

Keeping recycled plastics contaminant-free benefits the environment and your business.

Higher Market Returns

Clean, well-sorted plastics return a higher market price because they require less work to recycle and can produce the same or similar quality of products.

Lower Costs

Reducing contamination decreases the costs associated with processing and sorting plastics. Recycling waste materials over sending them to a landfill decreases disposal fees and increases potential revenue streams.

Brand Reputation

Showcasing a commitment to high-quality recycling works to strengthen your brand reputation and distinguish you as a leader in industrial sustainability.

Conserved Resources & Downcycling

Downcycling refers to recycling materials into products of lesser quality or value. Ensuring plastics are clean and free from contaminants maximizes their lifecycle, even if it means downcycling. Recycling, reusing, and producing materials at a lower quality conserve resources and energy compared to manufacturing new plastics.

Start Reducing Contaminants in Post-Industrial Recycled Plastic Today

Quincy Recycle works with industrial decision-makers and plant managers nationwide to implement effective waste management plans. By conducting a thorough waste stream audit, we identify areas of improvement, efficiency, and profitability.  Adopting strategic practices early in the recycling process adds value to your bottom line and the market price of your recyclable waste. 

Our team handles the logistics of implementing recycling green initiatives, but here are a couple of ways you can get started immediately:

  1. Gather Reports: Put together a file containing information about your facility’s waste and recycling. Include disposal fees, waste hauler statements, trash reports, waste types, invoices, and any relevant data on waste volume or current recycling efforts.
  2. Inventory Plastics: Categorize your facility’s waste plastic types and note contaminants commonly found before disposal.
  3. Define Goals: Identify specific goals you want to achieve with your new waste management plan, such as waste reduction targets, improvements in recycling rates, cost reduction, or compliance with new regulations.

We know that efficiently managing clean scrap plastic requires time and resources, so we streamline the process for our customers. Let’s work together to implement a waste management plan that’s convenient and fiscally attainable for your individual goals.

Moving Forward with Quincy Recycle

Quincy Recycle partners with clients to identify sources of contamination, implement separation strategies, and maximize the market return on plastic waste materials. Our team optimizes your recycling processes to make them environmentally sustainable and economically advantageous.

We understand that cleaning plastic scrap isn’t always a feasible option. Partner with us to effectively manage your waste stream and identify where and how your recycling green initiative benefits your business most. 

Take the first step toward cleaner, more profitable recycling practices by contacting us online or calling 800.311.6097.