Closed Loop Partners’ Center for the Circular Economy has published a new report directed at improving recovery rates and operations at US MRFs. | Jantsarik / Shutterstock
Closed Loop Partners’ Center for the Circular Economy and American Beverage have published a best practices guide for MRFs in the US, aiming to “boost recovery rates, increase material quality and foster resilient operations.”
The new guide for MRFs was released in conjunction with the expansion of extended producer responsibility (EPR) policy for packaging across the US.
“The US recycling industry is at a critical point, with policy changes shifting the status quo and creating opportunities for materials recovery facilities to operate at their highest capacity,” said Kate Daly, managing partner, CEO of the Center for the Circular Economy at CLP.
Closed Loop tapped Ann Arbor, Michigan-based Resource Recycling Systems to assist with the project.
“Materials recovery facilities are at the center of how communities recycle, and this guide equips them with clear, tactical practices to optimize performance in today’s evolving policy landscape,” said RRS Co-CEO Resa Dimino, in a statement.
In addition to the report, downloadable templates containing best practices are available to improve MRF operations, including key guidelines for metrics and performance optimization, equipment maintenance and spare parts management, facility management and staff organization and industry relations.
Jeffrey Fielkow, CEO of Circular Action Alliance, said the new playbook is “a practical guide for collaboration to maximize recovery and deliver program compliance and measurable results for a circular economy.”
“Collaboration with MRF operators, commitment to high standards, innovation and transparency are essential for Producer Responsibility Organizations to achieve EPR targets,” he noted.
Dimino echoed Fielkow’s comments regarding policy, saying that “through this collaboration with Closed Loop Partners and American Beverage, we’re underscoring practical ways operators can increase material capture, reduce residuals, and strengthen both environmental and financial outcomes as EPR programs expand.”
“One of America’s beverage companies’ highest priorities is creating a circular economy for our valuable, recyclable bottles and cans, and supporting the infrastructure that makes this possible,” said Kevin Keane, CEO of American Beverage. “Through this new guide, we aim to support key players along the recycling value chain to be well-positioned for success.”
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