Four years following the devastating fire at Republic Services’ Salt River Recycling Facility north of Mesa, the company has revealed a more extensive and advanced replacement at its Beeline Highway location within the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Community. This facility stands as one of only four materials-recovery facilities of its kind in the Valley.

Mesa’s Recycling Challenge

The loss of the previous recycling facility in 2019 dealt a significant blow to Mesa’s recycling program, resulting in the city having only one small vendor to handle its blue barrel material. This setback meant that, initially, only about 30% of the collected blue barrel material could be recycled, with the remainder ending up in landfills.

A Leap Towards Sustainability

With Republic’s new facility operational, Mesa has seen a substantial increase in the diversion of recyclable waste from landfills, soaring to 60%. Solid waste officials anticipate this number to further rise to an impressive 70%. The city is actively engaged in designing a materials recovery facility in southeast Mesa, operated in collaboration with the Town of Gilbert, with the goal of achieving 100% processing of its blue barrel material.

Technological Advancements and Investments

One positive outcome of the 2019 fire was the opportunity for Republic to construct a higher-capacity facility with cutting-edge technology. The company invested $38 million in a larger warehouse and a state-of-the-art processing machine incorporating sophisticated optics, robotics, and artificial intelligence. This machine can sort eight truckloads of material per hour, equivalent to 40 tons per hour, with minimal contamination.

Ensuring Quality and Purity

The technology employed by Republic’s facility is adept at distinguishing between different types of plastic. While humans oversee quality control, the advanced machine ensures the production of clean and pure bundles of plastics, aluminum, metal food cans, and cardboard. Reinforcements to the building’s foundation were necessary to support the colossal processing machine.

Destination of Processed Materials

Contrary to concerns about exporting waste, Republic Services reassures that none of its processed materials are sent overseas. The plastics processed at the Salt River facility find their way to Republic’s Polymer Center in Las Vegas, where they are prepared for the production of new bottles, jugs, and containers. Notably, Coca-Cola is one of the prominent customers for Republic’s plastics.

Serving the Community

The Salt River Recycling Facility caters to various communities, including Scottsdale, Fountain Hills, Chandler, Gilbert, and the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community. The significant role of the facility was underscored by the presence of four members of the Mesa City Council at the recent ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Public Perspective on Recycling

Mesa City Council members, Julie Spilsbury and Alicia Goforth, emphasized the importance of recycling to constituents, with Spilsbury stating that recycling is one of the “top five” topics constituents inquire about. The recent reduction in recyclables going to landfills is expected to restore public trust in recycling efforts.

Tribal Commitment to Sustainability

Operating on Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community land, Republic Services has a long-term lease agreement with the tribe. Tribal councilwoman Wi-Bwa Grey highlighted the facility’s contribution to community jobs and emphasized the tribe’s commitment to sustainability, aligning with their forward-thinking approach for seven generations ahead.

Maximizing Recycling Efforts

While Republic’s facility boasts state-of-the-art capabilities, Republic Services spokesperson Deidre Edgar encourages residents to maximize recovery by ensuring only acceptable items are placed in blue bins, cautioning against “wish-cycling” – the practice of including non-recyclables in the hope they can be recycled.

Enhancing Recycling Practices for a Sustainable Future

Republic Services’ investment in the Salt River Recycling Facility represents a significant step towards revolutionizing recycling practices in the region. The advanced technology, combined with community partnerships and a commitment to sustainability, positions the facility as a crucial player in Mesa’s journey towards achieving maximum recycling efficiency and minimizing environmental impact.