Background
Butler County’s Solid Waste District (a county-run recycling and solid waste authority) actively supports businesses from small enterprises to manufacturers to improve waste diversion and recycling practices. Rather than only serving residents, the county positions recycling as an economic and environmental opportunity for the business community.
Key Support Services for Businesses
Recycling Grants
Butler County offers competitive grant funding to help businesses start or expand recycling programs and that is where Recycle Away comes in. When Butler County provides grants, we work with the businesses to customize the bins to meet both their functional and brand needs. By providing the grants, Butler County makes an impact by:
- Reduces cost barriers to implementing in-house recycling
- Encourages investment in better recycling infrastructure
By working with Recycle Away consistently, the businesses in Butler County have consistent bins that amplify the impact of the overall program while providing customizations that support the organizations.
Waste Audits & Technical Assistance
County staff can conduct waste audits at business facilities to:
- Identify waste streams
- Suggest recycling opportunities
- Connect companies with local recycling processors
This helps businesses understand where they generate waste and how to divert more materials effectively.
Internships & Pollution Prevention (P2) Program
Butler County participates in the Southwest Ohio Pollution Prevention (P2) Summer Internship Program, placing college-level interns with local manufacturers and businesses. Interns work on:
- Reducing waste generation
- Improving process efficiency
- Lowering energy use
Participating companies benefit from practical, low-cost sustainability expertise.
Materials Marketplace & Exchange Services
Through connections with the Ohio Materials Marketplace, businesses can:
- Find outlets for unwanted materials
- Source materials needed for production
This “materials exchange” model turns potential waste into a resource, supporting local circular economy pathways.
Business Referrals & Recycling Resources
Butler County’s recycling team acts as a liaison, helping businesses:
- Identify local haulers and processors
- Navigate recycling infrastructure options
- Access county informational tools and guides
This service bridges the gap between business recycling demand and available supply chains.
Outcomes & Benefits
Supporting recycling for businesses yields multiple benefits:
Environmental
- Higher recycling rates county-wide
- Reduced landfill disposal
- Lower greenhouse gas emissions
Economic
- Cost savings on waste hauling
- Potential for revenue from recyclable material sales
- Infrastructure upgrades funded through grants
Operational
- Better waste management systems
- Informed decision-making on waste streams
- Enhanced sustainability credentials for companies
Recycle Away is proud to partner with Butler County by helping the county strengthen both local business sustainability and broader environmental goals.
Case Studies
