It started with glass, newspaper and aluminum cans. A movement to recycle goods that could be repurposed, instead of tossing items in the trash after a one-time use. Many companies now present opportunities to upcycle, the new term for repurposing old goods. Old yoga mats are being upcycled into ladies’ sandals, and if your favorite t-shirt no longer brings you joy, you can upcycle it too, and its threads made into another garment. To do our part, Bridgeland, in conjunction with Trex Company, a major manufacturer of wood-alternative outdoor living products made from recycled materials, has launched a community-wide recycling program.
For the next 6 months, we‘re inviting the entire Bridgeland community, along with all residents of the Cypress area, to participate in collecting single-use plastic bags and films. You know the collection of grocery bags that’s taking up space in your pantry? Here is the perfect opportunity to get rid of them without the guilt of tossing them in the trash. Other single-use plastic bags, such as bread bags, cereal bags, bubble wrap, ice bags, sandwich and produce bags are examples of what’s being collected during our recycling program.
“Teaming with Trex on this initiative is a perfect opportunity to reinforce our commitment to preserving and integrating the natural landscape into our community design,” said Lona Shipp, Director of Residential Marketing for Bridgeland. “Bridgeland takes pride in being a community designed to create a minimal environmental footprint and dedicated to educating residents on sustainability measures.
Keep it Clean to Keep it Green
The goal of the environmental campaign is to collect plastic waste that will reduce hundreds of pounds of landfill and be repurposed into outdoor park furniture and decking – just like the deck of the relaxation pool at Dragonfly Park which is made by Trex. It is important to note that not all types of plastic are being collected. Please do not include plastic water bottles, we’re asking for thin, film-like plastic. You’ll find a full list on the Trex website and at the end of this article. Also of great importance is that the collected plastic be clean, dry and free from any food or organic residue.
“Our recycling programs teach communities to think beyond cans and paper products, raising awareness about polyethylene plastic items that can be upcycled into new, sustainable products like Trex composite decking, which is made from recycled plastic film and bags,” said Stephanie Hicks, Materials Sourcing Manager for Trex Company. “As a company built on green values, Trex is extremely proud of this program and the many participating communities that collectively work hard towards their recycling goals. Together, we are protecting and preserving our environment – and having some fun in the process.”
The Howard Hughes Corporation continues its commitment to building extraordinary communities that are socially responsible spaces, so teaming with Trex makes sense. Trex has been repeatedly recognized for environmental stewardship and product integrity. Composed of 95% recycled products, their wood-alternative decking is durable with low-maintenance.
We encourage you to participate in collecting single-use plastic bags and films between now and July 1. Look for the collection bins at the following locations:
- Bridgeland Welcome Center, 16919 North Bridgeland Lake Parkway
- Lakeland Village Activity Center, 16902 Bridgeland Landing
- Dragonfly Park, Fitness Center, 18900 Copper Breaks Crossing
- Foundry Church – Fry Road Campus, 10203 Fry Road
- Houston’s First Baptist Church, 11011 Mason Road
- The Hope Chest Resale Market (Cy-Hope), 12015 Barker Cypress Road
Here is a complete list of what’s being collected:
- Grocery bags
- Bread bags
- Bubble wrap
- Dry cleaning bags
- Newspaper sleeves
- Ice bags
- Plastic shipping envelopes
- Reclosable food storage bags
- Cereal bags
- Case overwrap
- Salt bags
- Pallet wrap and stretch film
- Produce bags
- Wood pellet bags
