Developing End Markets: Polypropylene
Forward-thinking legislation like EPR and investments in recycling infrastructure are critical elements for developing Colorado’s circular economy. However, without end markets to consume these materials, Colorado cannot achieve its circularity objectives. One of the CEDC’s goals is to support the development of these end markets. Towards this goal, the CEDC is currently working on a project with Renegade Plastics Corporation to establish a circular solution in Colorado for polypropylene (PP), the second most abundant plastic after polyethylene (PE).
Renegade Plastics manufactures coated fabrics that are fully recyclable and designed as a safer, less toxic alternative to traditional polyvinyl chloride (PVC or vinyl). Unlike many coated fabrics—which combine layers of different plastics and are nearly impossible to recycle—Renegade’s material is made only from PP. This makes it not only lighter and stronger than alternatives but also completely recyclable. Its uses are wide-ranging: from billboards and ski lift covers to automotive upholstery, outdoor gear, tents, and tarps.
Currently produced in South Korea using virgin PP, Renegade Plastics is planning to move its manufacturing to Colorado. Over the past six months, the company has been testing how much recycled PP can be used in place of virgin material at a pilot facility in Denver. The results have surpassed expectations, demonstrating that fabrics with recycled PP content can meet their customer’s performance requirements. Building on this success, Renegade Plastics is moving forward with plans to launch a full-scale manufacturing facility in Colorado by 2027 that will provide a reliable end market for recycled PP.
Focus on e-Waste
The CEDC has expanded its material focus from plastics, textiles, tires, and C&D waste to include e-waste — one of the fastest growing waste streams globally.
On November 17 the CEDC facilitated an electronics recycling event for Pueblo City and County residents and businesses. The event was a partnership between the Pueblo Public Health Department, Front Range Transload, 3R Technology Solutions, and Pueblo RecycleWorks. Visit the Pueblo County Recycling Guide to follow along with upcoming e-waste initiatives.
In addition, the CEDC is leading a project to strengthen Colorado’s e-waste recycling supply chain, focused on battery-embedded devices. By collaborating with local and national companies across all stages of the supply chain, we are developing a scalable and replicable circular economy model.
West Slope Startup Week Launches Climate Track
West Slope Startup Week returned to Durango in October for the third year in a row with a new track focused on businesses that are part of the circular community. Powered by Startup Colorado, the free, five-day event was designed to support entrepreneurs across industries and business stages. This annual event serves as a platform to highlight the maturity and potential of rural businesses, as well as the opportunity for capital investment in these ventures. The event included the Startup Colorado Pitch Competition that featured six founders from across the state and drew an audience of more than 120 attendees with more than $15,000 in loans and grants awarded from Startup Colorado.
This year marked the launch of the event’s first Climate track, which featured five sessions that explored where climate and commerce meet to help build resilient businesses for a changing world. Marianne Mate, the Southwest Satellite Office Coordinator for the CEDC, spoke as part of the Climate Impact Panel “Where Profit Meets Purpose,” sharing opportunities for entrepreneurs and local businesses to be a part of the circular economy here in Colorado.
Circular Colorado Welcomes New Staff Member
Justin Stockdale — Justin brings more than 28 years of experience to his role as Director of Projects for the CEDC and as Managing Director of Supply Chain & Systems for Circular Colorado. His career began in Colorado in 1998, followed by leadership roles in New Mexico and Pennsylvania, and a return to Colorado in 2020.
EPR Update
The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) has officially approved Colorado’s final extended producer responsibility program (EPR) plan. As such, the Circular Action Alliance (CAA) Colorado has begun implementing a 100% producer-funded system for packaging and paper.
The CAA Colorado website has more information, including links to a reimbursement guide for local governments and deadline details.