South Carolina's recycling industry continues to be a powerful economic driver. Proof of that is the annual report released by the Recycling Market Development Advisory Council (RMDAC) this week. In 2016 alone, this burgeoning industry was responsible for more than $102 million in new capital investment and the creation of approximately 350 new jobs.
With more than 500 different recycling-related companies calling South Carolina home, this sector is comprised of haulers, collectors, processors, brokers, recycling equipment vendors and manufacturers and end-users or manufacturers that take recycled material feedstock and make recycled content products from them.
To discuss the state and future of this $13 billion industry, members of RMDAC met last month at GLYECO’s Rock Hill, S.C. facility. The message was clear – the state’s sustainable industry is a major boost to its economy. And, with announced capital investments of $1.1 billion and the creation of 3,000 new jobs over the last five years, this shows no signs of slowing down.
For additional proof that this industry is thriving, look no further than companies like GLYECO. As the largest antifreeze recycler in the U.S., GLYECO is able to take used antifreeze and other glycol waste streams and make high-quality products, such as windshield washer fluid, heat transfer fluid and extended life antifreeze. In 2012, this innovative company was processing 2,000 gallons of material at its Rock Hill facility. Last year, they processed 28,000 gallons.
As a leader in manufacturing, we often say that, in South Carolina, we’re great at making things. With a diverse recycling industry – featuring five paper recycling manufacturing facilities, 10 plastics reclaimers, three steel recycling mills, one recycled aluminum manufacturer and hundreds of other businesses – it’s clear that the Palmetto State also excels at remaking things. The continued development of this sustainable industry will help us ensure both environmental well-being and economic prosperity for years to come.