The Rewards of Recycling

 
 
 
 
 
There doesn’t appear to be any turning back the growing interest in all things “green.”

The latest Mintel report on green living confirms that the environment remains a concern for the majority of Americans. More than a third (35 percent) of respondents say they would pay more for ‘environmentally friendly’ products.

Retailers and manufacturers continue to embrace the movement in new and unique ways:

Philadelphia’s The Fresh Grocer recently teamed up with the city’s Recycling Rewards program, powered by RecycleBank, to support a program that rewards residents who recycle with points that can be redeemed for coupons to various retailers. Offers include a coupon for $5 off a $40 Fresh Grocer purchase.

BJ’s Wholesale Club announced plans to add four solar photovoltaic systems to its roster of 12 rooftop solar power installations in six states. The installations are being created through a partnership with Tioga Energy, a supplier of renewable energy services to commercial, government and non-profit institutions. In addition to the clean power provided by the systems, Tioga’s SurePathSM Solar PPA offers BJ’s predictable energy prices, providing up to 22 percent of the chain’s annual electricity at a cost lower than standard utility rates.

Hanes is championing its environmental efforts in the “For Future Generations” advertising campaign that began airing last month. The ad calls attention to EcoSmart Hanes Fleece, made in part from recycled plastic, and EcoSmart Hanes Socks, made with 55 percent recycled cotton fiber. It also notes that the fabric in 67 percent of Hanes men’s and boys’ undershirts is made using renewable energy.

The Coca-Cola Co. has partnered with furniture manufacturer Emeco to create a chair made from at least 111 recycled plastic bottles. Aptly named the 111 Navy Chair, it contains a mix of 60 percent recycled polyethylene terephthalate (rPET) plastic and a special combination of other materials. The chairs will be available for sale next month.