Mt. Diablo Resource Recovery Expands Recycling Program to Include Plastic Squeeze Tubes

Mt. Diablo Resource Recovery (MDRR) has announced a groundbreaking partnership with Colgate-Palmolive and Glacier to enhance the recycling of plastic squeeze tubes in Pittsburg, CA.

Colgate-Palmolive pioneered the development of recyclable toothpaste tubes made from High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE), the same No. 2 plastic used for milk and detergent bottles. Since 2019, they have shared this technology with other brands, leading to an industry-wide shift toward recyclable tubes.

By 2025, approximately 95% of toothpaste tubes and 85% of all HDPE tubes are designed for recycling, according to industry data compiled by Stina Inc.

Through this partnership, MDRR will utilize Glacier's AI-powered cameras to collect real-time data on the recovery of recyclable plastic squeeze tubes, including those used for toothpaste, lotion, and shampoo.

"We are excited to partner with Colgate and Glacier. It represents a significant step forward in our mission to divert as much material as possible from landfills," said Kish Rajan, CEO of MDRR.

Effective immediately, MDRR's residential recycling program will accept #2 plastic squeeze tubes in the blue recycling cart. Residents are encouraged to recycle plastic squeeze tubes from products like lotion, toothpaste, sunscreen, and cosmetics.

Before recycling, ensure that tubes are:

- Plastic (no metal tubes)

- As empty as possible

- With the cap on

Tubes should be placed loose in the blue recycling cart, not bagged.

This program expansion allows more everyday items to stay out of landfills, supporting a cleaner, greener community for everyone.

About Mt. Diablo Resource Recovery:

MDRR serves over 250,000 residents and thousands of businesses throughout Contra Costa, Napa, and Solano Counties. The company operates recycling and recovery programs designed to increase sustainability and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. MDRR's Material Resource Facility in Pittsburg, California, contains the area's largest state-of-the-art recycling processing center and C+D line to keep items out of the landfill.

For more information, visit their official website.