Schupan
Schupan is a family owned sustainable materials management company that has emerged as a leader in the recycling industry. With a commitment to environmental stewardship, the organization offers comprehensive support services for various recyclable materials, including ferrous and nonferrous metals, electronics, and beverage containers.
Schupan is renowned as the largest marketer and processor of used beverage containers, operating two facilities in Michigan and one in Iowa. The company handles over 2 billion beverage containers made of plastic, aluminum, or glass, actively participating in the global market for recyclable materials. Additionally, Schupan focuses on recycling other materials like cardboard and plastic film, helping their clients and partners work towards zero waste.
One significant aspect of Schupan's operations is its diverse international presence. Over the past three years, the company has experienced substantial growth, driven by increased demand for recyclable products from manufacturers across various industries, including furniture and food packaging. Schupan leverages its existing networks in Michigan and the larger US to establish robust supply chains with high-quality recyclable materials.
In addition to its recycling activities, Schupan operates a materials brokerage business unit that spans over 30 different countries. Moreover, the company has a manufacturing division specializing in the custom production of plastic and aluminum parts for manufacturers. Schupan also runs a smaller business unit dedicated to zero waste events, recycling services, and implementing social impact strategies. This unit focuses on calculating carbon footprints and offsetting them.
Schupan recognizes the pivotal point the recycling industry is currently experiencing. With manufacturers increasingly seeking to incorporate recycled content into their products, the demand for infrastructure capable of meeting these goals has outpaced the existing capacity. To address this challenge, Schupan emphasizes the importance of building networks and partnerships. By leveraging its robust network, the company provides unparalleled support and services to communities, businesses, and organizations, offering a more holistic approach to recycling beyond single commodities.
As part of its commitment to promoting recycling, Schupan is transitioning some of its facilities to offer recycling options for hard-to-recycle items. This includes electronic recycling, allowing employees to bring in materials for proper disposal and recycling.
Schupan places great importance on education and outreach to foster a culture of recycling and sustainable materials management. The company offers facility tours, conducts educational sessions at community fairs and festivals, and aims to engage individuals at the grassroots level. By focusing on educating the younger generation and encouraging them to influence their families' recycling habits, Schupan aims to promote widespread adoption of sustainable practices. To enhance these efforts, Schupan has recently completed the construction of an interactive walk-through recycling education display housed in a retrofitted 53 ft semi-trailer. This mobile unit serves as a community education vessel that can travel to different locations, spreading awareness and knowledge about recycling.
Looking ahead, Schupan aims to focus on aluminum recycling and develop unique technologies to support international supply chains in the next 3-5 years. By investing in these areas, the company seeks to further strengthen its position as an industry leader and contribute to global sustainability efforts.