PLASTICS RECYCLING CASE STUDY:

THE ALEXANDER FAMILY YMCA, RALEIGH

Description:
The Alexander Family YMCA of Raleigh, N.C. is a family-orientated multi-use health and wellness facility. It has been recycling since 2002 and actively offers recycling for cardboard, plastics, aluminum, glass and newspapers for its patrons. On a weekly basis, the YMCA has more than 1,000 patrons come through the facilities and use the recycling bins that are set up throughout the gym.

Implementation:
Inside the facility, recyclable containers such as glass, plastic and aluminum are collected commingled together in one bin. Staff members are responsible for regularly monitoring the indoor bins and taking the material outside to a larger recycling container, as needed. There are separate dumpsters for cardboard. When the outside bin has reached its capacity, the gym calls the city of Raleigh to schedule a pick up. The city then services the bin on its regular multi-family recycling route.

Results:
The YMCA was inspired to provide recycling for its members in order to demonstrate its environmental commitment and set an example of being a good environmental steward.