Glass recycler wins environmental award

The California Resource Recovery Association (CRRA) named Vetrazzo, makers of the original recycled glass countertop surface, winner of their annual “Outstanding Closing the Loop Commitment” award. It is awarded for the implementation of an innovative program or creation of a product containing a high recycled content.

Vetrazzo uses 100 percent recycled glass to manufacture a surfacing material that is a sustainable alternative to granite and other quarried stone. In 2008, Vetrazzo expects to recycle 1,600 tons of waste glass from sources as diverse as California Refund Value glass bottles, building demolition and misshaped or rejected bottles and jars from manufacturers.

“A single panel of Vetrazzo can use up to 1,000 bottles,” remarked James Sheppard, president of Vetrazzo. “We like to say there is a ‘story in every surface’ and to help tell that story we provide a ‘Certificate of Transformation’ with each panel so the owner will know the source of the glass in their countertop.”