May 26 2008
The California State Department of Conservation (DOC) held a press conference at the Vetrazzo manufacturing facility at Ford Point in Richmond on Wednesday, May 21, to announce the record jump in beverage container recycling for 2007. Vetrazzo, makers of the original recycled glass countertop surface, provided a fitting backdrop for the dramatic announcement of the all-time highest increase in beverage container recycling rates including a rise from 59% to 67% for glass containers as a result of the state's California Refund Value (CRV) program.
A total of 14.7 billion beverage containers were recycled in 2007 throughout the state. “By recycling a remarkable number of containers in 2007, it’s clear that Californians are doing more than ever to conserve natural resources, provide valuable raw materials for new products, and reduce energy use and greenhouse gas emissions,” stated DOC Director Bridgett Luther.
70% of Vetrazzo’s countertop panels utilize recycled beverage container glass. “A single panel of Vetrazzo utilizes up to 1,000 bottles and we recycle them at great energy savings because we use the glass without melting it,” remarked James Sheppard, Vetrazzo’s President. The increased supply of CRV glass will help us meet the growing demand for a green surfacing alternative to quarried granite. Vetrazzo countertops, with their distinctive large glass pieces, are a beautiful reminder of how last night’s bottles can be recycled into useful new products. ”
On hand for the press conference was State Assemblymember and senate candidate Loni Hancock (D-Berkeley), author of legislation that increased the California Refund Value to a nickel for containers less than 24 ounces and a dime for those 24 ounces and over. Unclaimed CRV refunds support the recycling program and provide grants to companies creating new markets for recycled materials. Vetrazzo received a significant grant from the DOC in 2005 which has helped expand production capacity by over 300% and has created a new market for recycled glass in the state. All Vetrazzo post-consumer recycled glass comes from within the State of California.