Identify the need, and build excitement around the solution

• Define the problem and how it affects the community

• Find a specialty recycling organization and, together, build a plan to create volume

• Be aware of regulations (ex. County Disposal Site regulations) and be prepared to work with local government to integrate the new system

• Get municipal governments on board by showing:

The benefits to their constituents (landfill waste diversion, etc.)

The system can work, not just hypothetically (business plan)

The potential revenue if the system is scaled

The potential government grant money available (IRA)

Don’t be limited by the guardrails of the existing system

• Be willing to innovate

• Have the allies in place to collaborate on solutions

Prepare, involve, and invest partners in the proposed solution

• Explain the issue, how it can benefit them, and why they should care

  • Vendors and suppliers

  • Local material recovery facility

  • Local non-profits

• Look for third parties that handle logistics of programs like this

Once you have defined a common objective, create an implementation plan

• Set goals and timelines

• Start small

• Launch pilot programs to figure out what works before trying to scale

Material management

• Make clear agreement/regulations for what is allowed in plastic stream

• Include aluminum – this pays the way, since plastic is a loss leader

• Ensure existing system remains in parallel with new stream

Use your own business experience to deploy the new system

Integrate with what is already working (ex: Existing collection receptacles can be repurposed, successful collection methods can continue to be used)

Super sacks provide a great way to start at a smaller scale and grow

Ensure proper storage space – if you don’t have room in existing buildings, consider alternatives

Leverage corporate financial support

Apply for grants​​​