Maryville, Mo. – Northwest Missouri State University recently competed against cities in seven Midwest states to win Ripple Glass’ inaugural Glass Recycling Program of the Year Award.

According to a press release, as the award’s first recipient, Northwest will receive a semi-truck load of Owen’s Corning fiberglass insulation, a $10,000 retail value, which will be used for energy conservation projects.

Northwest grew its glass recycling program from 59.60 tons in 2016 to 63.39 tons in 2017. Additionally, Northwest is preparing its recycling and pellet plant to serve as a regional recycling drop-off location.

A panel of independent judges scored Northwest’s application against a group of competing programs that also offer glass recycling programs.

“Northwest scored highly because of their dedication to providing recycling solutions to their community,” said Lauren Henry, regional program manager for Ripple Glass. “In order to meet the continuing need, the recycling plant staff refreshed the collection site on campus and expanded its infrastructure to accommodate intake from the community.”

Northwest’s recycling program has been recognized three times by the Missouri State Recycling Program. The University’s recycling annually generates revenues of more than $25,000 and helps Northwest avoid paying more than $17,000 in landfill fees while diverting about 361 tons from the local landfill.