Brightmark LLC announced its partnership with Lewis Salvage, an independently-owned recycling company based in Warsaw, a location with the world's highest concentration of orthopedic design and manufacturing companies, has surpassed one million pounds of plastics recycled, successfully diverting medical plastic waste away from landfills and incinerators.
"Surpassing the one-million-pound mark is more than just a number; it's proof that advanced recycling technologies can make a real impact on the healthcare industry's plastic waste challenge," said Bob Powell, founder and CEO of Brightmark. "Our proprietary technology is at the core of this success, enabling us to recycle a broad range of plastics - including those from healthcare settings that would otherwise be discarded. Since launching this effort, we've increased the volume of plastics recycled and demonstrated a model for the recycling of medical plastics."
Plastic makes up about 25% of the 14,000 tons of waste generated daily in U.S. healthcare facilities every day, according to the releasae from Brightmark. And 91% of plastics, including those used in healthcare, are not recycled and either reside in landfills or the environment.
"Our partnership with Brightmark is transforming waste into valuable materials, reducing landfill use, and creating new opportunities for businesses to join the circular economy," said Cary Lewis, owner and CEO of Lewis Salvage. "As Warsaw's orthopedic manufacturing industry grows, manufacturers are seeking more sustainable, efficient recycling solutions. Together, we're proving that innovative technology and commitment can drive true environmental stewardship."