Courtesy Photo New recycling bins were being prepped for use in Alpena. Alpena County and Holcim Alpena cement plant have partnered to reuse recycled glass.

ALPENA — Because of the recent ice storm, Northeast Michigan Materials Management Authority (NMMMA) is delaying the glass recycling public drop-off site installation. According to Bailey Barr, executive director for the recycling authority, the signage for the bins is still needed, along with a relocation site for the bins currently at Northern Lights Arena.

Originally, the NMMMA had a goal set for April 1 to have the glass recycling bins available to the public.

Alpena Mayor Cindy Johnson expressed her commitment to make sure the project resumes despite the setbacks, including the recent storm.

“The NMMMA Board appreciates everyone’s patience as we try to get back on track after the historic ice storm our region endured,” Johnson said. “Glass can be recycled at the facility on M-32.”

According to Barr, the glass recycling process that the NMMMA is adopting contributes to a circular economic model that aims to keep recycled materials circulating in the local economy longer, thus extending the lifespan of landfills.

To do this, NMMMA has partnered with Holcim to use the recycled glass in their cement.

“Glass recycling is essential in supporting a circular economy, particularly when the recycled glass is repurposed by companies like Holcim as a source of silica,” Barr said. “By diverting glass from landfills and reintroducing it into industrial processes, valuable raw materials are conserved, energy use is reduced, and carbon emissions are lowered. This not only minimizes environmental impact but also promotes sustainable resource management and closes the loop in material life cycles.”

Barr hopes that the glass recycling bins will be open to the public by the beginning of May. In the meantime, Barr said the public should utilize their recycling facility on M-32 during business hours.

Community members wishing to drop off their glass recycling should make sure that glass jars and containers are rinsed thoroughly, according to Barr. Barr also explained that lids should be removed before glass jars and containers are recycled.

Kayla Wikaryasz can be reached at 989-358-5688 or kwikaryasz@TheAlpenaNews.com.