Ecycler: a New, Easier Way to Recycle

The U.S. lags far behind most other western countries in recycling.  While some states and local areas have implemented regional recycling programs, many have not, leaving it up to consumers to take it into their own hands to collect and properly manage recyclable products.  The time and effort associated with storing all these products and bringing them to a recycling facility discourages many from doing it.  A new Illinois-based startup called eCycler is aiming to change this.

eCycler is an online marketplace which connects consumers looking to get rid of recyclables (“Discarders”) with people (“Collectors”) interested in collecting them and bringing them to a recycling facility, in turn receiving in many states the small cash incentive per bottle or can recycled. Through the online platform Discarders can choose a collector and arrange a pickup.  The consumer then leaves the recyclables in a pre-arranged spot outside for the collector to pick up and bring to a recycling facility.  eCycler encourages Discarders to offer their recyclables for free, however they request up to 40% of any cash proceeds the Collector receives for the recycled goods.

eCycler creates a win-win-win scenario in which consumers can easily dispose of their recycled goods, collectors (including individuals as well as organizations such as Boy Scout Troops) have a source of recyclables which can provide an extra income opportunity, and more goods are saved from the landfill.  The online marketplace is currently in beta and is being rolled out throughout the U.S.

www.ecycler.com