Sustainability
Every tote we reuse prevents new plastic production and reduces landfill waste. Our closed-loop model keeps industrial containers in circulation longer.
Environmental impact at a glance
Materials diverted from landfills annually
Totes returned to reuse cycles
Water saved through recycling system
Material recovery rate
Our sustainability philosophy
At Oklahoma IBC Totes, sustainability is not just a buzzword-it is the foundation of our business model. Every decision we make considers environmental impact alongside operational efficiency.
Reuse partner program
We help facilities build internal tote return workflows that reduce waste and lower costs. Our team can design custom programs tailored to your operations.
The IBC lifecycle explained
Collection
We collect used IBC totes from manufacturers, farms, and distributors across Oklahoma. Each tote is documented with prior contents, condition assessment, and photos. This data helps us route materials to appropriate destinations.
Assessment
Every tote undergoes detailed inspection. We evaluate cage integrity, liner condition, valve functionality, and pallet status. Totes are graded and sorted based on their potential for reuse or recycling.
Reconditioning
Reusable totes enter our cleaning and repair process. Multi-stage washing removes residues. Damaged components are replaced. Pressure testing verifies seal integrity before release.
Redeployment
Cleaned and tested totes are matched to new applications. Food-grade totes return to food processing. Industrial totes serve manufacturing. Every tote extends its useful life.
End-of-life processing
When totes can no longer be reused, we disassemble them completely. Steel cages go to metal recyclers. HDPE plastic is processed for pelletization. Pallets are refurbished or chipped.
Material recovery
Recycled materials re-enter the manufacturing supply chain. HDPE becomes new plastic products. Steel is melted and reformed. Wood becomes mulch or particle board. Nothing is wasted.
Water stewardship
Water is our most critical resource in tote reconditioning. We have invested significantly in systems that minimize consumption and eliminate discharge.
Multi-stage filtration system
Our wash water passes through multiple filtration stages before reuse. Particulate filters remove solids. Oil-water separators extract hydrocarbons. UV treatment eliminates biological contamination.
Closed-loop design
Our system recirculates wash water continuously. Fresh water is added only to replace evaporation losses. This approach reduces our water consumption by over 80% compared to single-pass systems.
Water system specifications
Annual water savings
Reduction vs. single-pass
Material diversion by component
| Component | Material | Weight per tote | Reuse rate | Recycle destination |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bottle/liner | HDPE plastic | 25-35 lbs | 70% | Plastic pelletizer |
| Cage frame | Galvanized steel | 55-75 lbs | 90% | Metal recycler |
| Pallet base | Wood or plastic | 35-45 lbs | 75% | Pallet refurbisher / chipper |
| Valve assembly | PP / metal | 1-3 lbs | 60% | Parts inventory / recycler |
| Gaskets / seals | Rubber / EPDM | 0.2-0.5 lbs | 0% | Landfill (minimal) |
Weights are approximate and vary by manufacturer. Reuse rates based on 2024 operations data.
Carbon footprint reduction
Emissions avoided through reuse
Every reconditioned tote that returns to service avoids the carbon emissions associated with manufacturing a new container. The environmental benefits compound across multiple reuse cycles.
Annual impact estimates
CO2 emissions avoided
Trees equivalent
Estimates based on EPA emissions factors and industry lifecycle assessments. Actual results may vary.
Local recycling partnerships
Steel cage recycling
We partner with certified Oklahoma metal recyclers who process our steel cages locally. This keeps materials in the regional economy and reduces transportation emissions. Our steel achieves high recovery value due to clean separation.
HDPE processing
End-of-life HDPE bottles are processed by regional plastic recyclers. The material is cleaned, ground, and pelletized for use in new products. Our clean material commands premium pricing due to consistent quality.
Pallet recovery
Wooden pallets are refurbished when possible or processed for secondary uses. Good pallets return to service. Damaged pallets become mulch, animal bedding, or particle board feedstock.
ESG reporting support
We provide comprehensive documentation to support your environmental, social, and governance reporting requirements. Our tracking systems capture detailed data on every tote we handle.
Sample report metrics
Reports available monthly, quarterly, or annually based on your needs.
Sustainability certifications and compliance
Environmental compliance
Our operations comply with all applicable environmental regulations including EPA guidelines for waste handling, water discharge, and air quality. We maintain current permits and undergo regular inspections.
Recycler certifications
Our recycling partners hold certifications including R2 (Responsible Recycling), e-Stewards, and state-specific licenses. We verify certifications annually and conduct periodic audits.
Industry best practices
We follow industry best practices for IBC reconditioning including RIPA (Reusable Industrial Packaging Association) guidelines. Our processes are documented and continuously improved.
How you can participate
Return program enrollment
Establish a tote return program at your facility. We provide containers, signage, and scheduled pickups. Your surplus totes stay in circulation instead of going to landfill.
Agricultural collection
Agricultural operations generate significant tote volumes. Our farm collection service recovers chemical, fertilizer, and feed totes for proper processing.
Partnership opportunities
We welcome partnerships with recycling facilities, waste haulers, and sustainability consultants. Together we can expand material recovery in Oklahoma.
Contact us to learn how we can help with your sustainability goals.