Personal Protection Equipment Recycling Implemented at Grand Timber Lodge and ConnectBreck

When our mountain community started feeling the effects of COVID-19, it became very clear that we were going to have a waste problem on our hands. Disposable masks and gloves began to pile up in our trash cans, litter the sidewalks and even contaminate our recycling bins. With BGV’s goal of increasing our waste diversion by 3% each year, we knew we would not meet this unless we made a change. So, we got creative!  Having worked with TerraCycle in the past for responsible recycling of otherwise non-recyclable items like snack wrappers, office supplies and disposable utensils, we were excited to work with them again to establish a few PPE boxes at BGV.

TerraCycle utilizes the hashtag #RecycleEverything, which is an accurate depiction of their philosophy. By taking items that are not traditionally recyclable and turning them into other products like pallets, fibers, insulation and plastic polymers (just to name a few), they are helping BGV reduce our impact on the environment while also contributing to our waste diversion goals. An added bonus – their sleek boxes showcase our efforts to help keep our community beautiful!

Eli Yoder, Assistant General Manager at Grand Timber Lodge (GTL), took a particular interest in this program. Yoder was a member of BGV’s original Green Team. This Green Team played a significant role in making sustainability related decisions before the creation of the Sustainability Department. GTL placed several PPE boxes across their property right away. They made these boxes available to employees, owners and guests. “At Grand Timber Lodge, we are incredibly passionate about sustainability,” Yoder states. “We live and play in the Rocky Mountains and feel strongly about keeping our planet beautiful for our kids and grandkids. As such, we have taken up a number of initiatives to reduce our environmental impact and divert waste from the landfill.” PPE recycling being one of them.

The TerraCycle receptacles are strategically placed so that everyone can easily access them. BGV also color codes the waste bins and ensures signage is clear, precise and accurate. By taking these actions, BGV wants to make it as easy as possible for owners, guests and employees to recycle. With Global Recycling Day occurring on March 18^th, BGV is eager to take part in this PPE recycling project, as well as increase our recycling efforts across our properties. When we make our waste diversion effortless, we ensure that everyone can do their part in helping to reduce the amount of waste that goes to the landfill.