Why Organic Recycling is the Future
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), in 2010 more that two-thirds of the total municipal waste generated in the U.S. was organic material such as food scraps, wood and plant materials. As the price of waste disposal continues to increase along with public pressure to eliminate landfills and garbage incinerators, recycling organic waste is good for business.
Organic Recycling Trends
Recycling organics is poised to follow the trend of bio-diesel, which has transformed expired food service cooking oil from a waste product into a profitable commodity for restaurants and grocery stores. While businesses used to pay waste removal services to remove oil from their fryers, high gas prices have resulted in an unprecedented demand for biofuels, meaning that what used to be a waste product can now be sold for current market prices. Along with the revenue they receive from the waste oil, businesses have successfully used their participation in biofuel production to boost their public image as eco-friendly.
Major cities including Toronto and San Francisco already have comprehensive organic recycling programs in place for both household and businesses, with a number of other municipalities following suit. Most commercial organic waste is handled by a organic recycling company using a process known as aerobic digestion, which produces both biogas and nutrient-rich soil. The resulting biogas is similar to natural gas and can be used to generate electricity and heat homes. As the market for alternative fuels grows, organic waste recycling will increase in both popularity and profitability.
Key Takeaways
- Consumer demand for green products, services and business practices will continue to rise and be a key factor in customer recruitment and retention.
- Customers will support companies that engage in “green” initiatives like organic recycling because it is both highly visible and relatable to the average consumer who already understands the basics of composting.
- Organic recycling is becoming a political issue, with a number of major cities already mandating the diversion of organic waste from landfills by both homeowners and businesses.
- Organic recycling is poised to become the next “bio-diesel”; turning the cost of waste disposal into a profitable activity.
- Developing an effective organic recycling program is an important element of an overall “green” business strategy.
Need Help?
If you have any more questions or comments on organic recycling, don’t hesitate to contact us!
[Free eBook] Things You Should Be Doing to Green Your Business
In Johns’ new ebook, we provide you with the latest and most effective ways to make your business more environmentally friendly. These practices are free of cost and will actually save you money!