Colorado’s low recycling rate prompts innovative solutions, including reusable takeout containers at Chook Chicken
Colorado’s recycling rate has long been a cause for concern, with the state consistently lagging behind the national average. However, Chook Chicken, a popular restaurant chain in metro Denver, is stepping up to address this issue. By implementing reusable takeout containers from Deliver Zero, Chook Chicken is not only making a positive impact on the environment but also setting an example for other businesses to follow. This article explores the efforts of Chook Chicken and highlights the broader initiatives aimed at improving Colorado’s recycling rate.
Colorado’s Recycling Woes
Despite Colorado’s reputation as an environmentally conscious state, it has struggled to improve its recycling rate. The annual State of Recycling report released by recycling leaders Eco-Cycle and CoPIRG reveals that Colorado has consistently maintained a recycling rate of only 16% for the past seven years. This is significantly lower than the national average of 32% for recycling, composting, and reuse in municipal waste. The report emphasizes the need for urgent action to address this issue.
Chook Chicken’s Reusable Takeout Containers
Chook Chicken has taken a proactive approach to promote recycling by partnering with Deliver Zero to offer reusable takeout containers. Customers who opt for this service pay an additional 99 cents, similar to ordering a side dish. The containers, made from #5 plastic, can be reused up to 1,000 times after being picked up and washed by Deliver Zero. Not only does this initiative reduce waste, but it also serves as a marketing tool for Chook Chicken, as customers dropping off their used containers are enticed by the aroma of the restaurant’s delicious chicken.
Promising Policy Changes
The State of Recycling report highlights several policy changes that could significantly improve Colorado’s recycling rates. One such change is the establishment of a producer responsibility board through a 2022 state law. This board has the authority to tax packaging-makers and use the proceeds to fund universal curbside recycling across the state. Additionally, Denver voters have passed mandatory recycling for multifamily apartments, ensuring improved access to recycling for hundreds of thousands of residents. Furthermore, new state laws restricting the use of plastic grocery bags and Styrofoam takeout containers will come into effect, further reducing waste and improving recycling rates.
Smaller Efforts Making a Difference
While policy changes are crucial, smaller-scale initiatives are also playing a significant role in reducing waste. Breckenridge Grand Vacations, a hotel in Breckenridge, successfully eliminated single-use shampoo bottles by switching to fixed, refillable containers. This move not only removed half a million plastic bottles from the waste stream but also reduced costs by 40%. These innovative waste reduction strategies demonstrate the importance of adopting a circular economy approach, where valuable materials are recycled and reused to create new packaging.
Overcoming Challenges and Expanding Efforts
Despite the positive impact of initiatives like Chook Chicken’s reusable containers, there are still challenges to overcome. Getting more involvement from third-party delivery services, such as Grubhub and UberEats, could greatly enhance the pickup and return process for reusable containers. Additionally, some restaurateurs, still recovering from the pandemic’s impact and facing labor shortages, may be hesitant to embrace further changes. However, the success of Chook Chicken’s initiative, with a return rate of 95 to 98%, demonstrates the potential for positive change.
Conclusion:
Colorado’s recycling rate has long been a cause for concern, but businesses like Chook Chicken are stepping up to make a difference. By implementing reusable takeout containers, they are setting an example for other establishments to follow. Policy changes at the state and local levels are also expected to contribute to improved recycling rates in the coming years. However, it is essential to continue promoting a circular economy approach and encouraging individual efforts to reduce waste. With these combined efforts, Colorado can move closer to achieving a more sustainable future.
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