More Than Cardboard Recycling

Rhea-AI Summary

Eastman has established a new cardboard recycling partnership with Goodwill Industries of Tenneva and Domtar in Kingsport, Tennessee. The collaboration processes up to 120 tons of cardboard monthly, which Goodwill bales and transports to Domtar for recycling. The partnership, which began in April, has led to the creation of two new jobs at Goodwill and the purchase of a fourth baler. The initiative reduces carbon emissions through local processing, as Goodwill's facility is only five miles from Eastman's site, while supporting both environmental sustainability and employment opportunities in the community.

Positive

• Environmental initiative preventing 120 tons of monthly cardboard waste from landfills
• Reduced carbon emissions through local processing and transportation
• Cost-effective waste management solution through local partnership

Negative

• None.

Reducing waste and creating job opportunities through Kingsport partnerships

NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / November 12, 2024 / Eastman

"We had to find a solution for all of our cardboard," said Marsha Edwards, senior environmental engineer at Eastman. "With our previous recycling partner closed, finding a baler became a top priority to keep cardboard out of the landfill and stay true to our sustainability commitments."

Edwards searched everywhere for a Kingsport, Tennessee, partner that could take Eastman's cardboard and bale it for recycling. The monthly volume of cardboard - up to 120 tons - complicated partnerships with local balers.

The Goodwill Industries of Tenneva Area, Inc. knocked on the company's door.  Goodwill already partnered with Eastman to recycle textiles, the nonprofit organization also had three cardboard balers. Goodwill approached Eastman with an offer to bale cardboard.

The partnership began in April, when Goodwill processed the inaugural shipment of cardboard. The bales are transported on Goodwill's sustainability truck for recycling by Domtar, a pulp and paper manufacturer in Kingsport.

"Through this collaboration, we're also lowering our carbon emissions," Edwards said. "Working with a local organization that's only about five miles away from our site requires reduced transportation. This is really a win-win for everyone."

To support growth of the partnership, Goodwill has purchased a fourth baler to handle larger boxes. Goodwill hired two additional employees to manage baler operations, which aligns with mission to provide employment to those in need.

"What truly makes this moment special for me is the promise of job opportunities it brings," said Morris Baker, president and CEO of Goodwill Industries of Tenneva. "This partnership and its achievements aren't just about cardboard recycling. It's about creating pathways to success and making a tangible difference in people's lives. We see that in the success of Goodwill employees and the benefit this three-company partnership has on our community's sustainability."

View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Eastman on 3blmedia.com.

Contact Info:

Spokesperson: Eastman
Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/eastman
Email: info@3blmedia.com

SOURCE: Eastman

View the original press release on accesswire.com

FAQ

How much cardboard does Eastman (EMN) recycle monthly through its Goodwill partnership?

Eastman recycles up to 120 tons of cardboard monthly through its partnership with Goodwill Industries of Tenneva.

When did Eastman (EMN) start its cardboard recycling partnership with Goodwill?

The cardboard recycling partnership between Eastman and Goodwill began in April, when Goodwill processed the first shipment of cardboard.

How many balers does Goodwill use for Eastman's (EMN) cardboard recycling program?

Goodwill has four cardboard balers, having recently purchased a fourth one to handle larger boxes for the Eastman recycling program.