Laying the Groundwork
From Bin to Bale: Inside Tomlinson's Material Recovery Facility
Welcome to Laying the Groundwork! In this episode, Francis Brazeau is joined by Michael Clement and Marc-André Lebel from Tomlinson's Environmental Services team for a behind-the-scenes look at the company's Material Recovery Facility (MRF). From cardboard processing to contamination, fire prevention, and facility operations, the conversation explores what happens after materials leave businesses and enter the recycling stream. Michael and Marc-André discuss the challenges facing the industry, the importance of proper sorting, and the rebuilding of Tomlinson's Material Recovery Facility following the 2021 fire. Episode Highlights: An overview of how Tomlinson's Material Recovery Facility processes cardboard and mixed paper products. The journey recyclable materials take from collection trucks to sorting, baling, and shipment to end users. Why contamination remains one of the biggest challenges in recycling and how materials like plastic, food waste, glass, and wood can affect the recycling process. The environmental benefits of repurposing cardboard and paper products instead of relying solely on virgin fiber. A look back at the devastating 2021 fire that destroyed the original facility and the rebuilding process that followed. The growing challenge of lithium-ion batteries and their role in fires across the waste and recycling industry. New safety measures, technologies, and operational changes designed to reduce fire risk. The design and construction of the new Material Recovery Facility, including expanded capacity and room for future growth. How education and customer awareness help reduce contamination and improve recycling outcomes. Marc-André's transition from construction operations to environmental services and the similarities between the industries. The importance of teamwork across Tomlinson's environmental, transportation, and industrial waste operations. Some of the unusual items found in recycling streams, including propane tanks, Christmas trees, medical devices, and even Pokémon cards. Key Takeaways: “The whole idea behind it is to repurpose that material instead of creating new fiber products from virgin resources.” “A lot of people don't realize how big of an issue batteries have become for recycling and waste facilities.” “Education is critical. People often don't realize the impact contamination can have throughout the recycling process.” “The new facility was built with safety, efficiency, and future growth in mind.” “There's not much we can't deal with when it comes to helping customers divert materials and find responsible solutions.” “Once you understand what happens behind the scenes, you start looking at recycling very differently.”
