Goodwill’s Green Works, a non-profit industrial recycler under Goodwill Industries of Greater Detroit, has secured a $50,000 grant from the Foodservice Packaging Institute’s Foam Recycling Coalition (FRC). This funding will facilitate the recycling of foam polystyrene (PS) products in Detroit and neighboring communities, benefiting approximately 1 million residents in Wayne, Washtenaw, and Oakland counties.

Foam Densifier for Sustainable Recycling:

The grant supported the acquisition and installation of a foam densifier, a crucial component that compacts foam products such as cups, plates, bowls, take-out containers, egg cartons, and block packaging foam into manageable foam blocks or ingots. Green Works plans to sell these foam ingots to end markets for the production of thermal insulation panels, picture frames, crown molding, and more.

Convenient Recycling Locations:

Residents can easily participate in foam polystyrene recycling by bringing their materials to designated receptacles at Goodwill’s thrift stores and donation centers in locations like Canton, Commerce Township, Dearborn, Livonia, Woodhaven, and Ypsilanti. Additionally, a partnership with Dart Container and Recycle Here! allows Detroit residents to recycle polystyrene foam at the Lincoln Street Recycle Here! drop-off location. All collected foam will be transported to Green Works’ 94,000 square foot facility in Detroit for densification into foam ingots.

Expanded Sustainability Efforts:

In addition to foam recycling, Green Works is incorporating responsible appliance disposal (RAD) practices. This involves the repair, resale, or reuse of old appliances, aiming to reduce the volume of waste sent to landfills. These sustainable initiatives not only contribute to environmental benefits but also provide second-chance employment opportunities for individuals seeking to redirect their lives in a more meaningful and productive direction.

Positive Impact on Community and Environment:

Caleb Rutledge, President, and CEO of Goodwill’s Green Works expressed the organization’s dedication to creating pathways to independence through personal development and work, while making a positive impact on the community and the planet. The addition of PS foam recycling and appliance repair to their sustainability workflow aims to divert materials from landfills, reduce pollution and climate change impacts, and generate 14 full-time jobs.

Collaborative Efforts and Recognition:

Natha Dempsey, President of the Foodservice Packaging Institute, acknowledged Green Works’ commitment to expanding recycling access in Southeast Michigan. The FRC grant, made possible through contributions from its members, including major companies like Chick-fil-A, Dart Container Corp., and Pactiv Evergreen, marks a significant step toward increased recycling of post-consumer foam polystyrene.

Goodwill’s Green Works, as the 34th grant recipient since 2015, exemplifies how collaborative efforts, supported by grants from organizations like FRC, can significantly enhance recycling capabilities. With over 11 million additional residents now able to recycle foam polystyrene due to FRC grants, initiatives like these play a crucial role in promoting sustainability and environmental responsibility.