Kentucky launches its first dedicated glass recycling program
The $350,000 initiative was created in partnership with O-I Glass, Workwell Industries, and multiple Kentucky distillers
Kentucky has launched its first dedicated glass recycling program. On September 5th, Governor Andy Beshear joined local officials and leadership from O-I Glass Inc. and multiple distilleries in Louisville to celebrate the launch of the $350,000 glass processing initiative, which will create up to ten new jobs. The initiative is a collaborative partnership between O-I Glass, Workwell Industries, and multiple Kentucky distillers, including Suntory Global Spirits, Diageo North America, and Pernod Ricard.
Creating jobs for those who have faced barriers to employment
The collaborative project will create Kentucky's first dedicated glass recycling program and provide needed support to prepare end-of-life glass spirits packaging for recycling into new bottles. The glass will be cleaned, sorted, and processed into cullet (furnace-ready glass), which will then be prepared for recycling into new bottles by O-I Glass, helping to create a sustainable local supply of recycled glass.
The initiative aims to create new jobs for those in the community who have faced barriers to employment and is focused on improving local recycling infrastructure by processing over 1,200 tons of glass packaging in its first year. The initiative is expected to create up to 10 permanent full-time jobs in sorting, machine operation, and materials handling.
Glass recycling benefits the spirits industry and the community
"Glass is core to the history of the Kentucky spirits industry," said Randy Burns, chief administrative officer for O-I Glass. "Glass is a valuable raw material. To achieve its full, sustainable potential, O-I is transforming recycling systems through collective action between customers, communities, and regulators in the communities where we operate. This innovative glass-recycling partnership builds on that legacy, benefitting not only local industry, but the community and our planet as well."
Workwell Industries is a nonprofit organization committed to creating jobs for people who may experience barriers to employment. This includes veterans, individuals with disabilities, and those who need second-chance employment. They specialize in co-packaging and sub-assembly for companies that outsource work.
"I am happy to welcome the RecycWELL facility to West Louisville," said Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg. "This project reflects our city's commitment to sustainability and showcases unique ways that the bourbon industry spurs economic growth throughout our community and our state. Together, we are building a greener, more prosperous Louisville for all."
