GPI Releases Results of U.S. Bar/Restaurant Glass Recycling Survey

The Glass Packaging Institute has released an in-depth survey of ten bar, restaurant, and hotel glass container recycling programs in eight states. In addition to collecting data on containers and processes, economic details, and logistics, the survey also identifies eight “best practices” that have come out of these trail-blazing programs.

To start, partnerships are key. Working in tandem, the food service businesses, hauler/recycler, and glass processor can more effectively ensure the recycled glass gets to a glass container manufacturer. And cities and counties that initiate programs are adept at helping to create these connections and bring all the parties together.

According to the survey, the average amount of glass collected through a bar, restaurant, hotel recycling program is about 150 tons/month, with the average number of participating businesses in a program at 100. Overall, implementing glass recycling resulted in a cost neutral for businesses or a small reduction/increase in costs.

Most programs were established to handle a high volume of glass containers generated at bars, restaurants, and hotels, as well as respond to the environmental impact of including glass with the trash rather than recycling it.