Golden Triangle Polymers is more than just a construction site; it’s a vision for how a best-in-class petrochemical facility will operate.
While the plant itself is still under construction, the team at GTP has implemented a recycling program for employees and contractors.
The program launched March 15 at GTP office buildings and on the construction site. This internal initiative will focus on single-stream plastics with a goal of recycling 80 tons per year — that’s roughly the same weight as 13 elephants. This includes post-consumer waste and construction-related plastics.
Among the program’s many supporters are Ava Coleman-Ecter, environmental permitting lead for GTP.
“We’re excited to work closely with our contractors to launch a new onsite plastic collection and recycling program. The facility’s efforts will help divert recyclable waste that would otherwise be thrown away,” Coleman-Ecter said.
The team is working closely with a third-party waste management company to streamline the collection and processing of recyclable materials. Additionally, they’re engaging with all contractors at the site to ensure everyone is aligned with program goals. Our project partners support this initiative by encouraging workers to participate and placing recycling signage at strategic locations around the site.
How it works
The program will be simple and efficient. Employees will be encouraged to deposit plastic bottles and other recyclable plastics into designated bins. Janitorial staff will then collect the bins and transport them to a compactor onsite. Once compacted, the plastics will be hauled to a recycling center in Houston. To further facilitate recycling, GTP will place bins in contractor trailers and throughout the construction site.
While recycling efforts are not always commonplace in industrial settings due to the associated costs, GTP is taking a proactive stance. This forward-thinking approach is a testament to the company’s continued efforts to reduce plastic waste and be a good neighbor to the Orange community, Dave Goddard, project director, said.
“This initiative is one example of our commitment to being a good steward of our site and the surrounding area. By prioritizing recycling and waste reduction, we can minimize our impact and set a positive example for others to follow,” Godard said.