Nonmetallics

PLASTICS: BEHR PAINTS RECEIVES AWARD FOR CREATIVE USE OF PCR

The Association of Postconsumer Plastic Recyclers (APR), Arlington, Va., has awarded Behr Process Corp., a maker of paints, stains and varnishes based in Santa Ana, Calif., the "PCR Creative Use Award."

The APR presented Behr the award at its June 20 Board of Directors meeting in Atlanta.

"This award acknowledges the consistent use of post-consumer recycled resin in products," APR Director Robin Cotchan says. "Behr has shown a commitment to the use of post-consumer polypropylene in paint cans sold nationally. Using plastic versus metal in the manufacturing of paint containers is notable, especially because the plastic is made with recycled content.

Chris Jones, Behr Process Corp.’s vice president of manufacturing, and Sophia Schade, vice president of merchandising for The Home Depot, accepted the award.

"The Home Depot is actively involved in pursuing environmental excellence through our stores and our vendors," says Schade. "We are committed to selling products that are manufactured, packaged and labeled in an environmentally responsible manner. Behr has set a good example in environmental responsibility, and I am proud to accept this award with them," she added.

Jones adds, "It’s gratifying to work for a company that is sensitive to environmental issues. We have never used lead in our paints, have a line of SCS Certified Biodegradeable and No VOC cleaners, as well as use recycled plastics in the manufacturing of our paint cans. I am extremely proud to accept this award on behalf of Behr."

Also accepting the award were Behr’s Eastern Regional Vice President of Manufacturing John De Joy and Regional Vice President of Sales Mark Faber, as well as The Home Depot’s Manager of Environmental Programs Kimberly Drye.

TIRES/RUBBER: ART OFFERS RUBBER MULCH ALTERNATIVE

American Rubber Technologies (ART) of Jacksonville, Fla., has introduced RubberStuff® Mulch designed for commercial and residential landscaping use.

Available in a variety of colors, such as Granite Gray, Cyprus Brown and Rustic Red, the mulch is derived from recycled tires. According the ARTS, because RubberStuff® Mulch does not decompose like traditional wood mulch, it eliminates the need for frequent replacement. RubberStuff® Mulch is colorful and porous with a natural texture that allows water and fertilizers to reach plant roots, according to the company. It also deters weed growth.

Each bag of RubberStuff® uses the rubber from three scrap tires, while a cubic yard uses rubber from 80 scrap tires. The mulch does not leach and is chemically safe for use around children, pets and plants. The chips are non-flammable, non-toxic, do not stain and are 98 percent wire free. The color coating is non-hazardous and does not fade, according to ART.

The Duval County School Board and City of Jacksonville have used the mulch as a playground surface and as a mulch replacement. Jack Saye, recycling coordinator of the Duval County School Board Facilities Department, says, "It is safe [and] doesn’t break down like mulch. We have never had to fluff it. Personally, I think it’s a great product."