Do it Best to offer recycling kits to members

Do it Best announced it is collaborating with Waste Management Inc., a Houston-based provider of comprehensive waste management services, to offer Do it Best members the materials they need to become local recycling centers.

The Fort Wayne, Ind.-based co-op made the announcement on May 16 during the spring market in Indianapolis. Members will be able to purchase recycling kits that provide storage and transportation packaging for CFL and fluorescent light bulbs, ballasts and batteries, including power tool battery packs. Once filled, the kits can be shipped via pre-paid postal containers to Waste Management for recycling.

“Do it Best Corp. is committed to helping our members promote good environmental stewardship,” said Steve Markley, VP merchandising. “Helping our members establish recycling centers is a perfect fit with our enviroLINK program, which promotes environmentally friendly and recycled products.”

According to Waste Management, recycling CFLs, batteries and electronics includes reclaiming the glass, metals and plastics used to produce them. Proper recycling is critical, the company said, as these products contain heavy metals or other toxins that can contaminate the environment if disposed of improperly.

According to a July 2007 Harris Poll, less than 2% of all electronics, cell phones, CFL light bulbs, batteries and other emerging recyclables/waste streams are properly recycled.