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For the past 24 weeks, New Orleans-based recycler REALCYCLE has been piloting a free drop-off program for residents of Jefferson Parish. In total, they collected 55 tons (110,000 lbs) of recyclables with a 99% recycling rate! That is a significant amount of material that would have ended up in our landfills had it not been diverted.

“We want to thank everyone who has participated in this program,” said Ben Bagwill, REALCYCLE Co-Owner and Founder. “When we come together as a community to respect our Earth and our resources, it shows hope for a more environmentally conscious future.”

Jefferson Parish residents on both the East and West Bank were relieved to have a place to take their recyclables, with curbside recycling ending in December 2023. REALCYCLE spent 12 weeks at each Bank, offering free recycling drop-off on Saturdays.

The following materials were collected:

• Glass bottles and jars (no mirrors, ceramics, pottery, etc.)
• Cardboard
• Aluminum, tin, steel cans
• Plastics #1 and #2
  • #1 includes soda, water bottles
  • #2 includes milk, juice, shampoo, detergent containers
• Mixed paper

This pilot program was a coordinated effort between REALCYCLE and Glass Half Full, a New Orleans-based company that recycles glass into sand and gravel for disaster relief and prevention, coastal restoration, eco-construction, and new glass products.

REALCYCLE was founded by Ben Bagwill. The company’s services include residential recycling pick-up, commercial recycling, and event recycling. Learn more about the company at restartrecycling.com.