Phoenix Sky Harbor implements recycling program in concourses

Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport’s employees, shops, restaurants and other business partners have been recycling for years, and now passengers can go green in Sky Harbor’s concourses as well.

Eighty recycling receptacles now are available past security in all three of the airport’s terminals. The silver cans with green logos are easy to find and ready to use, according to the airport, which is owned and operated by the city of Phoenix.

“We have always looked for innovative ways to reduce waste at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. The placement of these receptacles in our concourses is a logical addition to our growing recycling program,” said Becky Gawin, deputy aviation director of facilities and services.

Sky Harbor, along with many of its vendors and tenants, has been recycling pallets, baled cardboard, green waste (tree trimmings) and metal salvage, according to the airport. Recently, a pilot program in one of the concourses at Sky Harbor proved so successful that the program was expanded to the 80 recycling receptacles available today. Now co-mingled materials discarded in the concourses by passengers will be recycled as well.

Over the next few months, Sky Harbor will be measuring the success of the program by looking at the weights and amount of materials recycled.