PRC pop-up recycling events divert 170 tons of glass from landfills

Since launching the program last March in response to the sudden removal of glass from many of the region’s residential curbside recycling programs, Pennsylvania Resources Council’s (PRC) pop-up glass campaign has attracted approximately 9,000 participants and arranged for the recycling of nearly 170 tons of glass.

“Based on the tremendous response from residents, local governments and the glass industry throughout the past nine months, PRC recognizes that the public truly wants an alternative for glass recycling,” PRC Managing Director Justin Stockdale says.  “PRC’s pop-up glass events have ensured that glass is not trash, even if it can no longer be put out for curbside recycling in numerous municipalities due to recent changes in waste haulers’ contracts.”

At the collection events, residents can drop off all colors of glass bottles, jars and jugs that are “loosely packed in plastic bins or cardboard boxes” at no cost. PRC staff and volunteers are on-site to assist recyclers.

PRC’s network is sponsored by CAP Glass, Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania, Owens-Illinois, Perrysburg, Ohio, and Straub Brewery, St Marys, Pennsylvania, in conjunction with several local municipalities impacted by recent changes in curbside recycling regulations. 

“Glass remains a valuable commodity with vibrant demand in the regional and national recycled materials marketplace,” Stockdale says. “PRC now provides an opportunity for glass recycling in the Pittsburgh area that not only offers a solution for residents but that keeps the supply of recycled glass flowing to the mills that consume it as a raw material.” 

PRC plans to resume pop-up events in March 2020 and will advertise permanent drop-off locations during the winter.