Guide to Plastic Recycling

Identify the plastic scrap recycling needs of the community

Crunch numbers to get an idea of available resources for plastic scraps such as plastic bags, bottles or other food containers. Are there universities, churches and large grocery stores, all of which can produce huge amounts of plastic waste? Check for any existing recycling centers your community, whether it be for curbside recycling or plastic bag recycling. Make sure you don't try to establish something that already exists.

I recommend: The Recycling Center allows you to do a quick search for recycling businesses by ZIP code.

Get solid estimates on what plastic recycling machinery costs

Browse through sites that sell machinery to plastic recycling companies. Several sites offer equipment and have contact email addresses for quotes. The machinery is a big commitment so most of the sites also offer information for what you need to consider as far as skill and manpower are concerned.

I recommend: HarmonyEnterprises, Inc. and American Cierra Equipment, Inc. offer state-of-the-art equipment.

Set up a check list and prepare a plastic recycling business plan

In addition to the machinery, you must make a checklist to consider the cost of other items like plastic storage containers and vehicles to transport the plastic scraps. Also figure in the cost of collection as well as what it will cost to transport the plastic to your site. Write a business plan to project profits and to select a location for a recycling center. Consider an area that is both easy to get to and one with neighbors who can tolerate a little noise.

I recommend: RecyclingBizz.com blog provides up-to-date recycling news. Bplan.com offers a free sample plan for a plastic scrap recycling business.