Single-Stream Recycling
At our Heartland, Northbrook, DeForest and Exchange Material Recovery Facilities we utilize advanced technology to sort household recyclables. LRS sorts, separates, and sends this material to mills across North America where it is turned into new commodities. The Exchange, our newest recycling center, processes 25-tons per hour and is expected to divert 224-million pounds of recyclables annually.
Working Toward Net Zero
LRS made a commitment to have net zero business operations by 2040. Net zero entails a balance between greenhouse gases released into the atmosphere and the amount removed or offset. In 2022, LRS purchased its first electric collections truck with additional plans to electrify our machinery and equipment. By optimizing our driving routes, investing in electric equipment, and utilizing alternative fuels, LRS will continue to reduce emissions, thus pushing us closer to our net zero goal.
Community Education & Outreach
Inspiring and developing the next generation of environmental stewards is essential to the future of recycling. LRS is the waste & recycling partner for many midwestern school districts, universities, cultural institutions, municipalities, and non-profit organizations. As part of our commitment to education, LRS provides resources to our partners, customers and community members about recycling and sustainability.
Ever wonder what happens to your trash and recyclables after you put them at the curb? Let LRS take you inside the journey!
1. Customer Sorting – The customer sorts and separates recyclable materials from waste.
2. Collection – LRS collects waste and recycling separately, delivering materials to our cutting-edge facilities for sorting.
3. Sorting at Facilities – Working in sync with our advanced machinery, LRS team members maximize diversion to ensure we’re able to recycle as much material as possible. LRS diverts up to 40% of material that would normally be taken to landfills!
4. Recycling Materials – Once the materials are sorted and separated, recyclables are sold to be turned into raw material. Residuals that cannot be recycled are taken to a landfill.
5. Recycling is Marketed – Recycled materials are repurposed as new items to be bought or used again by the public.
