Closed Loop Partners鈥� Center for the Circular Economy, in collaboration with American Beverage, releases a new best practices guide for materials recovery facilities (MRFs) in the U.S., supporting MRFs in their work to optimize recovery rates, increase material quality and foster resilient operations. The guide, Materials Recovery Facilities: Effective Operation, Design and Management in Theory and in Practice, draws on insights from leading public and private MRF operators, recycling equipment vendors, recycling industry experts and others, establishing the industry standards needed to improve U.S. recycling infrastructure.
The guide is being released as Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) laws gain momentum across the U.S.鈥攚ith seven states already implementing them and more actively evaluating adoption. As these laws expand, there will be a growing need for transparency, performance-based metrics, and targeted education and funds to help MRFs adapt. This guide was created to aid MRF management personnel in identifying areas of improvement at their facilities and optimizing operations to maximize recovery of material streams and strengthen financial outcomes.
鈥淭he U.S. recycling industry is at a critical point, with policy changes shifting the status quo and creating opportunities for materials recovery facilities to operate at their highest capacity,鈥� said Kate Daly, Managing Partner and CEO of the Center for the Circular Economy at Closed Loop Partners. 鈥淭his guide鈥檚 insights help lay the foundation for stronger infrastructure, positioning U.S. recyclers to accelerate their critical work building resilient material supply chains.鈥�
鈥淐ollaboration with MRF operators, commitment to high standards, innovation and transparency are essential for Producer Responsibility Organizations to achieve EPR targets,鈥� said Jeffrey Fielkow, Chief Executive Officer, Circular Action Alliance. 鈥淐ircular Action Alliance supports this playbook by Closed Loop Partners鈥� Center for the Circular Economy, as a practical guide for collaboration to maximize recovery and deliver program compliance and measurable results for a circular economy.鈥�
MRFs play a critical role in managing residential recyclables, and with the right operational strategies, their recovery rates can improve dramatically. The guide outlines proven approaches to material flow design, equipment configurations, maintenance routines, municipal contract updates and staff training, among other areas. Developed through direct engagement with MRF operators鈥攂oth public and private鈥攁s well as equipment manufacturers, the manual draws on site visits, real-world testing and case studies to highlight what works. This guide delivers actionable insights to help MRFs increase material capture, reduce residuals, and enhance both environmental and financial performance.
In addition to the guide itself, a set of complementary templates are available for download and can be used by MRFs to establish best practices in their facilities, with key guidance on areas including:
- Metrics and Performance Optimization
- Equipment Maintenance and Spare Parts Management
- Facility Management and Staff Organization
- Industry Relations
The Closed Loop Center commissioned Resource Recycling Systems (RRS) to support this work. 鈥淢aterials recovery facilities are at the center of how communities recycle, and this guide equips them with clear, tactical practices to optimize performance in today鈥檚 evolving policy landscape,鈥� said RRS Co-CEO Resa Dimino. 鈥淭hrough this collaboration with Closed Loop Partners and American Beverage, we鈥檙e underscoring practical ways operators can increase material capture, reduce residuals, and strengthen both environmental and financial outcomes as EPR programs expand.鈥�
鈥淥ne of America鈥檚 beverage companies鈥� highest priorities is creating a circular economy for our valuable, recyclable bottles and cans, and supporting the infrastructure that makes this possible,鈥� said Kevin Keane, CEO of American Beverage. 鈥淭hrough this new guide, we aim to support key players along the recycling value chain to be well-positioned for success.鈥�