The Henry Ford's Innovation Nation Season 9 Episode 9 Glass Sand Recycling

The Henry Ford's Innovation Nation is back with another exciting episode, season 9 episode 9, titled "Glass Sand Recycling." This installment of the series delves into the innovative ways that we can recycle glass and make use of it in the most eco-friendly way possible.

The episode kicks off with a visit to North Carolina where we meet Jason Smith, the CEO of Strategic Materials, the country's biggest glass recycler. The team takes us through the process of turning recycled glass into a useful commodity that can be used in construction, road infrastructure, and even in children's play areas. We learn how this process helps save resources and protect the environment.

Next, the show introduces us to Mark Wilton, the CEO of Glassphalt Solutions, a Pennsylvania-based company that takes the concept of recycling glass even further by using it to make a product called Glassphalt. This is a type of pavement made using recycled glass, paved with a bituminous binder, and covered with aggregate. Glassphalt has several benefits over traditional pavement, including improved traction, longevity, and reflectivity, making it much safer for motorists.

After that, the show takes us to California to meet Ted Siegler, a recycling consultant and expert. Ted has been working in the recycling industry for over 40 years, and he has seen how the industry has evolved over time. Ted discusses how the recycling process works and the value of recycling glass. He emphasizes that recycling glass is not only beneficial for the environment but also for the economy.

The episode then takes us to Oregon to introduce us to Mike Biddle, CEO of MBA Polymers, a company that recycles plastic waste to make raw materials for new products. Mike focuses on the importance of recycling using sustainable methods to reduce waste and contaminants while conserving resources. He also shares with us why he believes that the United States needs to prioritize recycling and reusing products.

Finally, the episode wraps up with a trip to New York City where we meet Vanessa Butani, the founder of reVessel, a company that makes eco-friendly reusable containers. Vanessa shares with us how her frustration with single-use plastic led her to create a line of durable, sustainable containers made from glass and silicone. She also discusses how her company is making an impact in reducing the amount of waste generated from disposable takeout containers.

Overall, this episode of The Henry Ford's Innovation Nation is an inspiring look at the innovative ways that can help us recycle glass, plastic, and other products, and create a more sustainable future. It's a must-watch for anyone looking to make a positive impact on the environment.